In a thrilling Champions League opener at the iconic San Siro, Liverpool came from behind to secure a convincing 3-1 victory over AC Milan. The match showcased the resilience and attacking prowess of Arne Slot’s side on his 46th birthday.
AC Milan started brightly, with Christian Pulisic stunning the visitors in the 3rd minute. The American forward broke free on the right flank and drove a low shot across the face of goal into the far corner, giving the home side an early lead.
However, Liverpool quickly regained their composure and began to dominate proceedings. The equalizer came in the 23rd minute when Ibrahima Konate headed home from Trent Alexander-Arnold’s free-kick. The Reds continued to press, with Mohamed Salah twice hitting the woodwork before the break.
Liverpool’s captain, Virgil van Dijk, celebrating his 50th Champions League appearance, put his team ahead in the 41st minute. The Dutch defender rose highest to meet another Alexander-Arnold corner, heading home from close range.
The second half saw Liverpool extend their lead through Dominik Szoboszlai in the 66th minute, effectively sealing the win. The goal came from a swift counter-attack, with Cody Gakpo providing the assist.
Despite AC Milan’s efforts to get back into the game, including a penalty appeal from Alvaro Morata that was waved away, Liverpool’s defense held firm. The match also saw a worrying moment for Milan as goalkeeper Mike Maignan was forced off due to injury, being replaced by young Lorenzo Torriani.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, especially coming off a disappointing league defeat to Nottingham Forest just days earlier. “It was a great day to celebrate your birthday in a stadium like this – and with a win,” Slot told Prime Video.
The victory puts Liverpool in a strong position in their Champions League group, while AC Milan will need to regroup quickly to keep their European aspirations alive.
In other Champions League action, Real Madrid opened their title defense with a 3-1 win over Stuttgart, while Bayern Munich set a new record with a 9-2 victory against Dinamo Zagreb, featuring a hat-trick of penalties from Harry Kane.
The Champions League continues on Wednesday with Manchester City facing Inter Milan in another highly anticipated clash.
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