Goals:AC Milan – Napoli – Played on 04/12/2023

Milan emerged victorious in a tough battle against Napoli, 1-0 at the San Siro. Ismail Bennacer scored the only goal in the match in the 40th minute, to ensure the Rossoneri’s progress. The semi-finals will be decided in the second leg in Naples next Tuesday.

Strong start for Napoli

Napoli started the game strongly, putting Milan ahead from the start. Within 50 seconds, Calabria saved a shot from Kvaratskhelia that almost went into the net. Milan’s goalkeeper, Menan, misjudged the ball, but Kronic’s shot was weak, allowing Calabria to clear it off the line.

Napoli continued to dominate the match, and Anguisa almost scored in the third minute with a powerful shot, which Maeenan saved with a wonderful one-handed effort. Di Lorenzo also had a close chance with a dangerous header from a corner kick.

Milan’s first attempt

Milan advanced in the 40th minute with a quick counterattack. Diaz played a beautiful pass to Liao, who then passed it to Bennacer. He hit a powerful shot, which Merritt, the goalkeeper of Napoli, failed to stop.

Nearby Milano misses

After the goal, Milan pressed for a second, with Giroud and Tonali coming close to scoring. Kayer also hit the bar with a header from a corner kick.

Missed opportunities for Naples

Napoli continued to create chances but failed to convert them into goals. Elmas and Oliveira both hit the crossbar while Minnan saved a shot from Di Lorenzo in the 87th minute.

Substitutions and the red card

In the second half, both teams made two substitutions, as Bennacer and Salmirekers replaced Milan and Raspadori replaced Lozano instead of Napoli. Anguissa was shown a red card in the 74th minute after a second warning.

Conclusion

Milan’s hard-fought win puts them in good stead for the second leg, but Napoli will be looking to turn the deficit in front of their home fans. The semi-finals will be decided next Tuesday.