Youth League: Milan thrash Braga 4-0 to reach last 16

Colombo, Stalmach, Alesi and Longhi on target as Rossoneri breeze past Portuguese opponents

Milan cruised into the last 16 of the UEFA Youth League with a comprehensive 4-0 victory over Braga at the Centro Sportivo Vismara on Wednesday.

Paolo Maldini's charges were in impressive form throughout, with Lorenzo Colombo, Emil Roback, Kevin Longhi and Simone Alesi all on target to secure a comfortable victory.

Milan took the lead in the 16th minute when Colombo latched onto a through ball from Lorenzo Pirola and coolly slotted home.

Roback doubled the Rossoneri's lead just before the half-hour mark, firing a low shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the box.

Alesi made it 3-0 in the 55th minute after he was played in by Colombo, before Longhi completed the rout in the 72nd minute with a fine individual effort.

The win sees Milan finish top of Group E with 16 points, while Braga finish second with 10 points.

Colombo leads the line with aplomb

Colombo was in inspired form for Milan, scoring one goal and setting up another.

The 18-year-old forward has now scored 10 goals in all competitions for the Rossoneri this season, and his performances have been a key factor in their success.

Colombo's movement and finishing were excellent against Braga, and he was a constant threat to the Portuguese side's defence.

Roback and Alesi provide the support

Roback and Alesi were also in impressive form for Milan, providing the goals and assists that helped to secure victory.

Roback's goal was a fine strike from the edge of the box, while Alesi's goal was a composed finish after he was played in by Colombo.

Both players have been in good form for Milan this season, and their contributions were vital in helping the team to reach the last 16 of the Youth League.

Longhi completes the rout

Longhi came off the bench to score Milan's fourth goal and put the seal on a comprehensive victory.

The 17-year-old midfielder showed great skill and composure to beat two defenders and fire home from a tight angle.

Longhi's goal was a fitting end to a dominant performance from Milan, and it will give the team confidence ahead of their last-16 tie.