AC Milan 1-0 Napoli: Bennacer’s Goal Seals Victory for Rossoneri Against 10-Man Napoli in UCL Quarter Finls

AC Milan emerged victorious over Napoli with a 1-0 win in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal clash. The game was dominated by Napoli in the first half, but Milan managed to take the lead just before halftime through Ismael Bennacer’s goal. Both teams had hit the crossbar earlier in the game, and Napoli had four clear-cut chances within the first few minutes.

Napoli’s injury crisis hurts their chances

Napoli, who had a 16-point lead at the top of Serie A, were without their leading goalscorer Victor Osimhen and Giovanni Simeone due to injuries, and coach Luciano Spalletti opted to start Giacomo Raspadori on the bench and play Eljif Elmas in the false nine position.

Milan’s win was made more comfortable when Napoli midfielder André-Frank Zambo Anguissa was sent off 16 minutes from time, following two yellow cards in quick succession.

Napoli’s aggressive start fails to pay off

Milan had routed Napoli 4-0 when the two teams met in the Italian league on April 2, but Napoli looked like a different side this time around. Despite having plenty of chances in the opening stages, they were unable to capitalize and their night was compounded when Anguissa was sent off.

Milan now take a goal advantage into the second leg at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona next week, where they will face Napoli again. The winner will play either Inter Milan or Benfica in the semifinals.

Overall, Milan’s victory over Napoli was a testament to their determination and resilience. Despite being dominated for much of the first half, they managed to take the lead and hold on for the win. With their strong performance, Milan has put themselves in a good position to progress to the next round of the Champions League.