AC Milan closed out the 2023/24 Serie A season in dramatic fashion, sharing the spoils in a thrilling 3-3 draw against US Salernitana at the San Siro. The match, played on May 25th, saw Olivier Giroud net a farewell goal for the Rossoneri,while Davide Calabria and Rafael Leao also found the back of the net.
Calabria Takes the Mantle as Milan's MVP
Despite the shared points, Davide Calabria emerged as the clear standout performer for Milan. The defender put in a tireless shift down the right flank, constantly providing an outlet and linking up effectively with Alexis Saelemaekers. His headed goal in the 77th minute, a powerful effort from a corner, proved crucial in salvaging a point for the home side.Calabria's leadership and determination were a constant source of inspiration for his teammates, solidifying his claim to the Man of the Match award.
A Match of Two Halves
The first half unfolded as expected, with Milan dominating possession and creating the better chances. Rafael Leao, a constant thorn in Salernitana's defense, opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a trademark weaving run and a composed finish. Just five minutes later, Olivier Giroud doubled Milan's lead, heading home a pinpoint cross from Sandro Tonali. The Frenchman's goal was tinged with sentimentality, potentially his last in a Milan shirt as transfer rumors swirl.
The second half, however, saw a resurgent Salernitana fight their way back into the contest. Simeon Nwankwo pulled one back in the 64th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Milan. The goal injected belief into the relegation-threatened visitors, and they continued to press for an equalizer. Their persistence paid off in the 87th minute when a controversial penalty decision was awarded. Federico Bonazzoli stepped up and converted from the spot, sending the Salernitana fans into a frenzy.
Nail-Biting Finish and Post-Match Reactions
With the scores level and time running out, Milan launched a final assault. Their persistence paid off as Calabria rose highest to meet a corner and head the ball home in the 77th minute. The San Siro erupted in celebration, but the drama wasn't over. Just two minutes later, Salernitana were awarded another penalty, leaving the home crowd stunned. This time,however, Gianluigi Donnarumma pulled off a magnificent save to deny Bonazzoli his second goal and secure a point for Milan.
The final whistle blew on a pulsating encounter, leaving mixed emotions on both sides. While Milan fans were left disappointed at surrendering a two-goal lead, they gave a standing ovation to Olivier Giroud, who may have played his last game for the club. Salernitana, on the other hand, celebrated their hard-fought point, a crucial result in their battle against relegation.
Looking Ahead
For Milan, the focus now shifts to the summer transfer window. With key players like Giroud potentially leaving, the Rossoneri will be looking to bolster their squad to challenge for the Scudetto again next season. Salernitana, meanwhile,will be hoping to build on this momentum and secure their Serie A status in the upcoming campaign.
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