Salerno, Italy – In a dramatic Serie A encounter on Friday, AC Milan narrowly escaped defeat against bottom-of-the-table Salernitana, thanks to a last-minute goal from substitute Luka Jovic. The match at Stadio Arechi ended in a 2-2 draw, a result that leaves Salernitana at the bottom with nine points, while Milan sits in third place with 33 points, four behind second-placed Juventus.
Milan’s Frustrated Ambitions: Milan manager Stefano Pioli expressed his disappointment in a post-match interview with DAZN, highlighting the team’s errors and their failure to secure a win. The visitors started strong, with Fikayo Timori heading in the opening goal in the 17th minute, thanks to a well-executed play involving Rafael Leão’s cross from a free-kick.
Salernitana’s Resilient Comeback: However, Salernitana demonstrated resilience, equalizing in the 42nd minute. Federico Fazio’s powerful header from a corner kick, assisted by Antonio Candreva’s effort which led to the corner, saw the teams level at halftime. The home team then surprised Milan in the 63rd minute as Candreva took advantage of a distracted Maignan, scoring from the edge of the box.
Milan’s Near Miss and Jovic’s Impact: Despite Salernitana’s lead and their subsequent attempts to extend it, Milan fought back. Jovic, who came on for Ismaël Bennacer in the 70th minute, initially tested Salernitana’s keeper Benoit Costil with a header and a follow-up shot in the 82nd minute. His persistence paid off in the 90th minute when he connected with a header from Olivier Giroud, executing a perfect half-volley into the far corner, marking his third goal of the season.
Implications and Standings: This result leaves Milan in a challenging position in the league, while Salernitana continues to fight for survival. Meanwhile, Fiorentina’s 1-0 victory over Monza propelled them to fourth place with 30 points. Bologna, awaiting their match against Atalanta, now finds themselves two points behind Fiorentina.
Pioli and his squad return with much to contemplate as they strive to regain their momentum in the Serie A race, while Salernitana’s gritty performance, despite their league position, sends a message of defiance and resilience.
