AC Milan 3-2 Torino: Serie A 2025-26 match report

The Stadio Giuseppe Meazza played host to a high-scoring encounter on Sunday as AC Milan secured a 3-2 victory over Torino. In a tactical battle between Massimiliano Allegri and Leonardo Colucci, both sides utilized mirrored 3-5-2 formations, leading to a congested midfield and a game defined by rapid transitions and defensive lapses.

The opening

The match began with a sense of urgency from both sides, though it was Milan who dealt with the early nerves less effectively. Fikayo Tomori picked up a yellow card in the 9th minute, signaling a physical approach from the hosts. As the half progressed, Milan began to find space in the wide areas, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 36th minute through Strahinja Pavlović.

However, the lead was short-lived. Just before the interval, Torino responded with a clinical move that allowed Giovanni Simeone to equalize in the 44th minute. The goal shifted the momentum back to the visitors just as the halftime whistle approached, leaving Allegri with clear tactical adjustments to make in the dressing room.

The decisive moment

The second half began with a significant shift in intensity. Following a halftime substitution that saw Fikayo Tomori replaced by Z. Athekame, Milan emerged with a renewed attacking impetus. The game was effectively decided in a frantic two-minute window shortly after the restart.

In the 54th minute, Adrien Rabiot restored Milan’s lead, finishing a well-constructed move assisted by Christian Pulišić. Before Torino could reorganize, the hosts struck again. In the 56th minute, Youssouf Fofana extended the advantage to 3-1, with Athekame providing the assist. This quick-fire double put Milan in a commanding position, forcing Colucci to turn to his bench.

Torino’s attempts to claw back into the game were hampered by Milan’s control in the middle of the park, but the visitors remained persistent. The match took a dramatic turn in the 81st minute when a VAR review resulted in a penalty for Torino. Nikola Vlašić stepped up and converted the spot-kick in the 83rd minute, narrowing the deficit to a single goal. Despite a late flurry of substitutions and increased pressure from Torino in the final minutes, Milan managed to hold their defensive line. The closing stages were marked by a series of cautions, including a yellow card for Strahinja Pavlović and late bookings for Torino’s Emir İlkhan and Milan’s Santiago Giménez, as the hosts successfully managed the clock to secure all three points.

Looking ahead

The result provides AC Milan with a vital boost in their domestic campaign, demonstrating an ability to respond to adversity during a high-pressure home fixture. For Torino, the defeat highlights defensive vulnerabilities that will need to be addressed if they are to maintain their standing in the league table as the season enters its final stretch.