AC Milan secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Girona in the UEFA Champions League 2025, solidifying their position in the league standings. The match, played at San Siro Stadium on January 22, 2025, showcased Milan’s defensive discipline and tactical strength, with Rafael Leão scoring the decisive goal in the first half.

🔥 Watch Full Match Highlights Below! 🎥👇

Match Recap: AC Milan’s Defensive Masterclass

First Half – Rafael Leão’s Moment of Brilliance

The match started with both teams playing cautiously, aiming to control possession and exploit spaces. Milan, playing at home, dominated early proceedings, while Girona relied on quick counterattacks.

  • 15th Minute: AC Milan’s first real chance came when Christian Pulisic’s long-range effort was saved by Girona goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga.
  • 22nd Minute: Girona responded as Viktor Tsygankov attempted a curling shot, but Mike Maignan made a comfortable save.
  • 33rd Minute – Goal for Milan! 🔥 Ismaël Bennacer delivered a perfectly weighted pass to Rafael Leão, who controlled the ball brilliantly and slotted it into the top corner, giving Milan a 1-0 lead.
  • 45th Minute: Just before halftime, Milan nearly doubled their lead as Theo Hernández’s powerful shot hit the crossbar.

💥 Halftime Score: Milan 1-0 Girona

Second Half – Milan’s Solid Defense & Girona’s Fightback

Girona came out determined in the second half, pushing forward in search of an equalizer. However, Milan’s defensive line stood firm, blocking key attacks and maintaining their lead.

  • 52nd Minute: Girona’s Artem Dovbyk found himself in a one-on-one situation, but Maignan pulled off a spectacular save to deny the equalizer.
  • 65th Minute: Milan’s Olivier Giroud, who came off the bench, forced Gazzaniga into a save with a header from a corner.
  • 79th Minute: Girona’s last big chance came when Aleix García’s shot from outside the box was deflected just wide.
  • 90+4th Minute: Milan held possession effectively in the final moments, running down the clock and sealing their 1-0 win.

🏁 Full-Time Score: AC Milan 1-0 Girona

Key Match Stats 📊

  • Final Score: AC Milan 1-0 Girona
  • Goals:
    • Rafael Leão (33′)
  • Possession: AC Milan 58% – Girona 42%
  • Shots on Target: AC Milan 4 – Girona 3
  • Saves: AC Milan 3 – Girona 4
  • Fouls Committed: AC Milan 11 – Girona 9
  • Corners: AC Milan 6 – Girona 4

Post-Match Reactions 🎙️

Stefano Pioli (AC Milan Manager)

“It was a well-fought game. We controlled the first half, and our defense was excellent in the second. Leão’s goal was fantastic, and Maignan made crucial saves.”

Míchel (Girona Manager)

“We played with intensity, especially in the second half. We had our chances, but Milan’s defense was strong. I’m proud of my team’s effort.”

What This Win Means for AC Milan & Girona

🔴 AC Milan’s Playoff Push: This victory pushes Milan into the top eight of the UEFA Champions League standings, improving their chances of progressing to the knockout rounds.

Girona’s Exit: The loss mathematically eliminates Girona from playoff contention, marking the end of their historic first Champions League campaign.

What’s Next?

With this win, AC Milan prepares for their next Champions League challenge, while Girona shifts focus to their domestic league campaign. The Champions League drama continues—who will qualify for the knockout stage?

💬 What did you think of AC Milan’s performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

📢 Don’t forget to watch the full highlights above! 🎥