Christian Pulisic Scores as AC Milan Defeats Bari 2-0 in Italian Cup Opener

What's Happening?

Christian Pulisic, the United States international, scored a goal in AC Milan's 2-0 victory over Serie B team Bari in the opening round of the Italian Cup. The match, held at San Siro, saw Pulisic score shortly after the break, following an exchange with Santiago Gimenez. Rafael Leão, another key player for Milan, scored the opening goal but was substituted due to a calf injury. The match also marked the debut of Luka Modrić for Milan, who joined the team after a long tenure with Real Madrid. Milan's coach, Massimiliano Allegri, was absent due to a suspension stemming from an incident during his previous tenure with Juventus.

Why It's Important?

The victory is significant for AC Milan as it sets a positive tone for the season, especially after finishing eighth in the Italian league last season. Pulisic's performance highlights his potential impact on the team, which could be crucial for Milan's aspirations in both domestic and European competitions. The injury to Rafael Leão, however, could pose challenges if he is unable to participate in upcoming matches. Additionally, the debut of Luka Modrić adds experience to the squad, potentially enhancing their performance in future games.

What's Next?

AC Milan will face Lecce in the next round of the Italian Cup in late September. The team will also begin their Serie A campaign against Cremonese at San Siro. The availability of Rafael Leão for these matches remains uncertain, which could affect Milan's strategy and lineup. The team's performance in these upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining their momentum for the rest of the season.