Milan Edge Newcastle United for 2-0 Victory in UEFA Youth League Semifinal
Rossoneri to Face Benfica in Final After Dramatic Match
Milan's Determination Shines Through Against English Opposition
AC Milan's Primavera side emerged victorious against Newcastle United in the UEFA Youth League semifinals, securing a 2-0 triumph on home soil to book their place in the final. The Rossoneri put on a dominant display, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive resilience to overcome the spirited challenge of the Magpies.
The match began at a frenetic pace, with both teams eager to impose their style of play. Milan, buoyed by the energetic atmosphere at the Vismara Sport Center, took the initiative and sought to dictate the tempo of the encounter. Newcastle, however, proved to be a formidable opponent, matching Milan's intensity and seeking to exploit any gaps in the Rossoneri defense.
Milan's persistence paid off in the 27th minute, when Gabriele Alesi's clever movement created space for him inside the penalty area. The striker latched onto a defense-splitting pass from Tommaso Mancini and coolly slotted home the opening goal. The Rossoneri faithful erupted in celebration, sensing that their team was on the cusp of something special.
Newcastle responded with renewed determination, seeking to level the score before the interval. They came close on a couple of occasions, but Milan's defense, marshaled by Alessandro Plizzari, remained resolute, thwarting the Magpies' attempts to find a way through. The Rossoneri went into the break with a slender 1-0 advantage, knowing that they needed to maintain their composure and intensity in the second half.
The second half commenced with Milan continuing to control possession and probe for openings. They created several chances to extend their lead, but Newcastle's goalkeeper, Dan Langley, produced a string of impressive saves to keep his team in the contest. The Magpies, to their credit, never gave up and continued to pose a threat on the counterattack.
With time running out, Milan finally sealed the victory in the 87th minute. A mazy run from substitute Marco Nasti created chaos in Newcastle's defense, and his pinpoint cross found Lorenzo Colombo unmarked in the six-yard box. The striker made no mistake, tapping the ball into the net to spark scenes of jubilation among the Milan faithful.
The final whistle blew moments later, confirming Milan's place in the UEFA Youth League final. The Rossoneri will now face Benfica, who defeated Real Madrid in the other semifinal, in a bid to lift the prestigious trophy for the first time since 2016.
