San Siro Stunned as Benfica Expose AC Milan's Defensive Lapses in 2-0 Win
SL Benfica handed AC Milan a 2-0 defeat at Stadio San Siro in Matchday 1 of the UEFA Europa League League Phase, extending the Italian side’s winless streak across all competitions to three matches. Strikes from Dodi Lukebakio and Jakub Kaminski exposed sluggish defensive organization from the host side, securing three points for the visitors. The result immediately places pressure on Milan’s continental campaign following back-to-back domestic draws.
Benfica Rested Stars and Capitalized on Milan’s Low-Intensity Setup
Benfica orchestrated their victory despite making nine changes to their starting XI, systematically dismantling Milan’s defensive shape through sharp, direct transitional play. Milan deployed Alexis Saelemaekers in the central trequartista role, a central attacking midfield position designed to link play between midfield and the forward line, but struggled to generate rhythm during the opening 45 minutes. The visitors exploited wide pockets, punishing passive positioning across the backline to stake their advantage
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