Gimenez Shines as Milan Moves Closer to European Spots with Win Against Verona

AC Milan celebrated consecutive Serie A victories for the first time since September, thanks to Santiago Gimenez’s second-half goal, which clinched a narrow 1-0 win against Verona.

Entering the match four points off the Serie A top six, Milan recognised the significance of securing three points against their faltering opponents.

The opening 20 minutes were tightly contested, with Tijjani Reijnders forcing a smart save from Lorenzo Montipo with a low strike from distance.

As the first half wore on, clear opportunities remained scarce, and although Gimenez managed to slot the ball past Montipo, his effort was ruled out for offside by the assistant referee.

After a frustrating first half, Milan squandered a fantastic chance to score just before the interval when Yunus Musah fired over from 12 yards after an excellent cut-back by Giménez.

The early moments of the second half mirrored the first, with both sides struggling to create quality chances in front of goal.

However, Conceicao’s decision to bring on Rafael Leao at half-time proved pivotal; the winger appeared most likely to unlock the defence, as he had an effort deflected narrowly wide of the far post.

As the clock ticked towards the final 20 minutes, Milan intensified their push for a winner, and their efforts were rewarded when Alejandro Jimenez’s cleverly weighted pass found Leao unmarked in the box. He deftly set up Gimenez to head the ball into an open net.

That solitary goal proved decisive, as, despite some late pressure from Verona, the Rossoneri maintained their defensive composure, securing a ninth consecutive victory over their opponents.