AC Milan secured a crucial 1-0 victory at Hellas Verona, with Adrien Rabiot's first-half strike proving decisive in the Serie A clash.
AC Milan traveled to the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19 seeking to maintain their push toward the title. The visitors sat third in the standings with 63 points from 32 matches, while Hellas Verona occupied 19th place with just 18 points. Milan's recent form showed promise with one win in their last five games. Verona, meanwhile, had won just once in their previous five outings and desperately needed points to aid their survival bid.
The opening stages saw Milan control possession with 52 percent of the ball. Verona pressed high but struggled to create clear chances. The home side's defense remained organized despite their league position. Milan's midfield controlled the tempo through measured passing and careful build-up play.
In the 24th minute, Verona's Jacopo Akpa Akpro received a yellow card for a reckless challenge. This early caution set the tone for a tight, competitive encounter. Both teams understood the stakes and played with discipline. Chances remained limited as defenses held firm.
Rabiot broke the deadlock in the 41st minute with a clinical finish. The midfielder found space in the box and struck with precision to give Milan a 1-0 lead. This goal arrived at a crucial moment, just before halftime. Verona's defense had momentarily switched off, allowing Rabiot the opportunity to capitalize.
Halftime arrived with Milan leading 1-0. The visitors had managed just two shots on target but made their quality count. Verona needed to find a response in the second half if they hoped to salvage a result. Tactical adjustments seemed necessary for the home side.
The second half began with Verona pressing for an equalizer. They created more attacking opportunities but lacked the finishing touch. Milan's defense, led by Fikayo Tomori, remained solid and organized. The visitors absorbed pressure without panic.
Verona threw bodies forward in search of a breakthrough. Roberto Gagliardini worked tirelessly in midfield for the home side, creating one key chance. Nicolás Valentini made five tackles in his defensive efforts. Despite their commitment, the hosts could not find a way past Milan's goalkeeper.
In the 85th minute, Verona's Al Musrati received a yellow card for dissent. This reflected the frustration building among the home players. Milan controlled the final stages with composed possession play. Luka Modrić anchored the midfield with his experience and positioning.
The statistics told Milan's story of efficiency. The visitors recorded an expected goals (xG) total of 0.67 compared to Verona's 0.37. Milan took just four shots but converted one. Verona managed 12 shots but only two found the target. Milan's goalkeeper made two saves to secure the clean sheet.
This victory moved Milan closer to the title race. Verona's loss deepened their relegation concerns, sitting 19th with 18 points from 32 matches. Milan's third-place finish remains within reach as the season enters its final stretch. Rabiot's decisive finish proved the difference in a match decided by quality rather than quantity.
