Massimiliano Allegri remains confident that AC Milan can achieve their Champions League aspirations despite a 2-2 draw with Sassuolo. The match at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza saw Armand Lauriente score late, securing a point for the visitors. Sassuolo initially led through Ismael Kone's 13th-minute goal, but Davide Bartesaghi's two goals put Milan ahead.
Bartesaghi, at 19 years and 350 days, became the youngest Italian defender to score for Milan in Serie A since Paolo Maldini in 1988. However, Lauriente's 77th-minute goal equalised the game after a well-executed team move past Mike Maignan. Despite the draw, Allegri remains optimistic about the team's prospects this season.
Allegri expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, acknowledging
Sassuolo's attacking quality. "I think we played a good game," he told DAZN. "We attacked well, and Sassuolo are always dangerous because they have quality in attack. " He noted that failing to recover possession quickly meant defending for extended periods.
Milan recorded an expected goals (xG) total of 1.2 from 13 shots compared to Sassuolo's 1.1 from eight attempts. Allegri highlighted the need to concede fewer goals moving forward. "We know there's a lot of work to do," he said, emphasising defensive improvements as crucial for their campaign.
The Opta supercomputer gives Milan an 86.1% chance of finishing in the top four this season. Their attention now shifts to the Supercoppa Italiana semi-finals against Antonio Conte's Napoli on December 18. Allegri is focused on maintaining their lead in Serie A while preparing for upcoming challenges.
Substitution Decisions and Tactical Adjustments
Following the draw, Allegri addressed his decision to substitute Christian Pulisic with Samuele Ricci in the 73rd minute. "I would have done it anyway," Allegri explained, noting Pulisic joined after recovering from a fever and performed well for most of the match.
Allegri felt adding another midfielder was necessary at that point in the game. He praised Loftus-Cheek's efforts up front but stressed the need for better defence, particularly against Lauriente's second goal. "We had to follow Lauriente," he remarked, highlighting defensive lapses.
Despite these challenges, Allegri remains positive about AC Milan's trajectory this season. The team continues to aim for Champions League qualification while addressing areas needing improvement.
