AC Milan boosted their push for next season’s UEFA Champions League with a hard-fought 2–1 victory away to Genoa at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, thanks to goals from Christopher Nkunku and Zachary Athekame, despite a late scare from Johan Vásquez.
The visitors struck early in the second half when Nkunku confidently converted a penalty in the 50th minute after winning the foul himself.
Genoa responded with determination and enjoyed long spells of possession, but Milan’s composure in key moments proved decisive as they doubled their advantage in the 81st minute.
A well-delivered cross from Christian Pulisic found Athekame, who finished neatly with his left foot from close range.
Genoa set up a nervy finale when captain Johan Vásquez pulled one back in the 86th minute, reigniting hopes inside the stadium.
However, Milan managed the closing stages well to preserve their lead and secure all three points.
Both managers turned to their benches in the second half to influence the contest. Milan introduced Niclas Füllkrug and Pulisic before the second goal, later bringing on Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Koni De Winter to see out the result.
Genoa responded with attacking changes, including Jeff Ekhator and Caleb Ekuban, but could not find an equaliser.
Statistically, Genoa dominated possession with 62% and attempted 11 shots, though only two tested Mike Maignan.
Milan, by contrast, were far more clinical, registering six shots on target from eight attempts and finishing with a superior expected goals tally of 1.84 to 1.35.
The visitors also showed defensive discipline, recording more clearances (25 to 16) and interceptions (7 to 4).
Despite Genoa’s edge in duels won and three big chances created compared to Milan’s two, the away side’s efficiency in both boxes made the difference. Justin Bijlow made four saves for Genoa, while Maignan was called into action just once.
Athekame stood out as Milan’s standout performer with an 8.2 rating, combining his decisive goal with a key pass.
Nkunku also delivered when it mattered most, earning a 7.5 rating for his composed penalty finish, while Maignan impressed with a 7.3 for his calm handling and distribution under pressure.
For Genoa, Johan Vásquez led from the back with a goal and a strong defensive display that earned him a 7.7 rating, while Morten Frendrup and Alexsandro Amorim provided energy in midfield.
Overall, the result keeps Milan firmly on course for Champions League qualification. It was not a dominant display, but a controlled and efficient away performance, exactly the kind needed at this stage of the season, as Genoa were left to rue missed opportunities.
