Teenager Cisse Scores on Debut as AC Milan Beats Torino in Amorim’s First Game
In an exciting display of talent and determination, Alphadjo Cisse marked his Serie A debut with a stunning goal, leading AC Milan to a 2-1 triumph over Torino in Ruben Amorim’s inaugural match as their head coach. The match, held in the competitive atmosphere of Turin, saw both teams featuring new managerial strategies as Ignazio Abate, a former player for Milan, took charge of the home side.
The game began with high energy as AC Milan sought to establish dominance early on. Just two minutes in, Cisse had a promising opportunity to score, but his effort went wide, hitting the side-netting after receiving a low cross from Ruben Loftus-Cheek. Despite controlling possession, AC Milan struggled to convert their advantage into tangible opportunities, leaving Torino’s goalkeeper Diego Mascardi—also making his debut at the age of 19—largely untested during the first half.
As the clock ticked down towards the half-hour mark, Mascardi finally had to intervene, making a crucial save against Samuel Chukwueze, who made a dynamic run into the penalty area. This moment marked the only significant shot on target for either team during a first half characterized by a lack of attacking intensity. Torino’s defense effectively contained AC Milan’s club-record signing, Goncalo Ramos, who was unable to make an impact in his first game with the Rossoneri.
Amorim made strategic changes shortly after the break, introducing seasoned midfielders Luka Modrić and Adrien Rabiot, a move intended to spark the offense. Torino attempted to respond, with Giovanni Simeone pressing forward after scoring the winning goal in their previous Coppa Italia match. However, it was AC Milan’s offensive capabilities that ultimately shone through. In the 64th minute, Rabiot’s precision cross set up Cisse for a brilliantly executed goal, showcasing the teenager’s composure and skill.
Only three minutes later, Rabiot turned from assist provider to scorer, executing a close-range volley with flair, finding the net once again against Torino and marking his third goal in successive Serie A matches. Torino, not ready to concede defeat, responded with a substitution strategy, bringing on new players to increase their offensive threat. Alieu Njie nearly leveled the score when he struck the post, while Pietro Comuzzo’s subsequent chance flew over the bar.
As the match drew to a close, Che Adams managed to slip one past AC Milan’s defenses, scoring a stunning volle from a free kick in stoppage time, but it was too little, too late for Torino, who faced their first home league defeat since February 15. Meanwhile, Amorim’s successful debut highlights a triumphant start for AC Milan this season, as he becomes the first foreign coach to secure a victory in their opening match since 2009.
For his standout performance, Samuel Chukwueze was awarded the title of Man of the Match, emphasizing his key role in the team’s success during this intense encounter.
