AC Milan have surged to the top of the Serie A table after a commanding 3-0 victory over Hellas Verona at the San Siro on Sunday. The win, orchestrated by a decisive second-half brace from forward Christopher Nkunku, sees the Rossoneri leapfrog city rivals Inter Milan, at least until the Nerazzurri play later in the day.
A Patient Breakthrough Before the Break
The first half proved to be a frustrating affair for the home side, as a well-organised and disciplined Verona defence held firm. Milan struggled to create clear-cut chances against the resilient visitors. The deadlock was finally broken in added time at the end of the first half. A Milan corner was only partially cleared, and the ball fell to Christian Pulisic at the far post, who expertly volleyed home to give his side a crucial lead heading into the interval.
Nkunku Takes Centre Stage
Any lingering tension was dispelled in a blistering five-minute spell from Christopher Nkunku in the second period. The French international first doubled Milan's lead from the penalty spot after being fouled inside the area. He then completed his quickfire double by showing sharp instincts, pouncing to slot home the rebound after a Luka Modric shot cannoned back off the post.
Nkunku marked his first goal with a memorable and light-hearted celebration, miming the act of blowing up a balloon, much to the delight of the San Siro crowd.
Title Race Implications and Sunday's Action
This result sends Milan provisionally to the summit of Serie A, applying pressure on their rivals. The focus now shifts to the rest of Sunday's fixtures. Inter Milan, who began the weekend as leaders, face a tough away test against Atalanta in the evening's standout fixture. A win for Inter would see them reclaim top spot.
Elsewhere, champions Napoli, sitting third, travel to face Cremonese, while Bologna host Sassuolo. The Serie A title race remains fiercely contested, with Milan's comprehensive victory serving a significant statement of intent.
