Berardi’s Goal Propels Sassuolo to Upset Victory Over 10-Man AC Milan
The hopes of AC Milan for a top-four finish in Serie A suffered a significant setback following a resounding 2-0 defeat to Sassuolo at the Mapei Stadium. This match marked Sassuolo’s first victory against Milan in their last five encounters across all competitions, revitalizing their aspirations to finish in the league’s top half.
Despite having their title ambitions mathematically dashed, Ac Milan aimed to secure their spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League. However, the game began disastrously for the Rossoneri as Sassuolo broke the deadlock within the first five minutes. After a brilliant combination of passing, Armand Lauriente found Domenico Berardi, who was unmarked in the penalty box, producing a superb low shot into the far corner of the net.
Milan demonstrated a lackluster performance from the outset, and the situation deteriorated further when defender Fikayo Tomori was issued a red card in the 24th minute due to two yellow cards for careless challenges. This incident epitomized a disappointing opening half for the away team, which failed to register a single shot on target.
After halftime, Sassuolo continued their aggressive approach, doubling their lead just two minutes into the second half. Milan’s defense was caught off guard, allowing Luca Lipani to pass to Lauriente on the left flank. Following a slick one-two with Kristian Thorstvedt, Lauriente finished sharply at the near post.
Throughout the match, Milan struggled defensively and conceded more than one goal for the first time in their past eleven away league matches. By the 60-minute mark, goalkeeper Stefano Turati had yet to face a shot on goal, prompting manager Massimiliano Allegri to make multiple substitutions in a bid to turn the tide. However, Milan’s dismal display persisted, enabling Sassuolo to cruise to their third win in five league games.
This unexpected victory has lifted Sassuolo into the upper half of the Serie A table and intensifies their pursuit of a third top-eight finish in the last seven years. Meanwhile, AC Milan must regroup to secure their position in the top four, with Juventus now poised to level their points and both Como and Roma closely trailing the Rossoneri in the standings.
Flashscore’s Man of the Match was awarded to Armand Lauriente from Sassuolo for his crucial contributions during the game.
