AC Milan's lows: a helpless puzzle
Opening.
AC Milan, once an evergreen in Serie A, have fallen far short of expectations this season, with a series of defeats that have left fans worried. The Champions League failed to break through in the group stage, finishing third and having to play in the Europa League. In the knockout play-offs, although the first leg beat Rennes by 3 goals, the second leg narrowly won 2-3 away and barely advanced. At the same time, Serie A also withdrew from the championship ahead of schedule. Expectations were high for this game against Atalanta, but two consecutive defeats have put the team in a slump.
Fantastic start and controversial penalties.
At the start of the game, Leao went into Longtan alone to get a dream start for AC Milan, and everything seemed to be going well. However, Giroud disputed the penalty and allowed Atalanta to draw away. In order to get out of the decline, Pioli sent the main force to fight, but the result was not as expected.
Tactical arrangements and offenses were fruitless.
Stefano Pioli used a 4-2-3-1 system with an emphasis on attack, but Atalanta defence was excellent in the game. AC Milan had absolute possession, but Atalanta were a threat on the counter-attack. Despite Leao's individual performances, AC Milan have never been able to find a breakthrough in attack.
The shadow of a controversial decision and a loss.
In the 37th minute, Rafael Leao threatened again, but the controversial handball decision did not benefit AC Milan. Olivier Giroud was awarded a penalty for defensive action in the box, and although the closing action was obvious, AC Milan became the victim of the penalty instead. Koopmeiners hit the penalty to hold Atalanta to a 1-1 draw. AC Milan suffered two consecutive defeats in this game, their form is sluggish, and fans' worries about the team's qualification for next season's Champions League are gradually heating up.
The pain of defeat and the fear of Champions League prospects.
In the second half, AC Milan continued to organise attacks around Leao, but chances such as Loftus-Cheek and Christian Pulisic were unable to capitalise on them. After the game, the team went three games without a win in all competitions, which made people anxious about the team's form. AC Milan, once brilliant, is now in a slump, and fans have doubts about whether the team can compete for next season's Champions League spot.
Conclusion and reflections.
AC Milan's low point is not a momentary loss, but a deep reflection. Behind the defeat is the urgent need for tactical adjustment, the improvement of the player's condition, and the leadership's clear plan for the future of the team. Fans are expecting AC Milan to learn from the defeat and rise again. The road ahead is full of twists and turns, but it is only through reflection and hard work that AC Milan will be able to return to the top.