Milan succumbed to a disappointing 2-1 defeat away at the hands of Torino, as they lose grip over the title race with the narrow upset.
Two goals in the space of a couple of minutes before half-time handed Torino all three points. Koffi Djidji drew first blood in the 35th minute with a header, before Aleksei Miranchuk sent the home crowd berserk with a low drive to make it 2-0. Despite Junior Messias getting a second-half goal, it was nothing but a consolation, as the Rossoneri’s deficit with league leaders Napoli extends to six points.
Coach Stefano Pioli was left reeling after the loss, in his post-match press conference to the microphone of DAZN (via MilanNews).
“We weren’t very lucid. We didn’t play at the highest level. The matches must be addressed, putting quality and determination in the episodes, but we weren’t good in ours and in the opponent’s area; we conceded too many attacks. I’m disappointed, we wanted to continue our strong streak and I was expecting another convincing performance. We will certainly have to work better.”
Milan now sit six behind Napoli, and one behind Atalanta.
“Tonight’s game was important to keep second place and not move away from Napoli; they are very strong and are doing an exceptional championship, but it is still long. We must resume our journey, putting aside this bad defeat and start thinking about Wednesday: the first goal is approaching.”
When quizzed if he expects RB Salzburg to put up a similar display like Torino, Pioli swiftly denied.
“No, they are aggressive, but they do not remain closed, with a different mentality than Torino. I think it will be a different game than Torino.”
The Rossoneri will look to bounce back in the final UEFA Champions League group matchday, as they seek qualification to the round of 16 in a do-or-die encounter against the Austrian champions.
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