AC Milan strengthened their Champions League ambitions with two late goals that sealed a 2-0 win over Cremonese. The Rossoneri struggled for rhythm throughout the match, yet they found decisive moments in the final minutes to stay on track for a top‑four finish. Strahinja Pavlovic broke the deadlock in the 90th minute, and Rafael Leão added a second in stoppage time to secure a result that masked a flat performance.
Late goals keep Milan in control of top‑four race
Milan entered the weekend knowing the Serie A title remained out of reach. Inter hold a commanding lead, and next week’s derby carries more emotional weight than competitive significance. However, Milan’s primary objective has always been Champions League qualification, and this victory pushed them closer to that target. Coach Massimiliano Allegri reminded his players that the race remains tight, with several contenders still collecting points. He highlighted the pressure from Como, Atalanta, Napoli, Roma, and Juventus as the season enters its decisive stretch.
Fifth‑placed Como sit nine points behind Milan, while Roma trail by seven. Atalanta remain five points off the Champions League spots after a surprising defeat to 10‑man Sassuolo. Their loss ended an impressive unbeaten league run that stretched back to the start of the year.
Allegri urges focus as competition intensifies
Allegri stressed the importance of consistency, especially with rivals pushing hard. He insisted Milan must take each match “one step at a time” to avoid slipping into the chaotic battle below them. The Rossoneri have no European commitments this season, which gives them a physical advantage, but Allegri knows pressure can shift quickly in Serie A.
He also acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the league, pointing to Napoli’s late win and Atalanta’s unexpected setback. Milan’s margin for error remains slim, and Allegri wants his squad to maintain discipline as the final 11 matches approach.
Cremonese slide toward relegation danger
Jamie Vardy’s Cremonese extended their winless run to 13 matches, leaving them dangerously close to the relegation zone. They sit outside the bottom three only on goal difference, and their form continues to decline. Despite a spirited defensive effort, they could not withstand Milan’s late surge.
Cremonese now face a difficult battle to avoid an immediate return to Serie B. Their lack of goals and inability to close out matches have become defining issues, and the pressure grows with every passing week.
AC Milan Champions League push gains momentum
Milan’s late victory reinforced their top‑four credentials and kept them firmly in control of their destiny. Pavlovic and Leão delivered when it mattered most, and Allegri’s side now approach the derby with renewed confidence. The title may be gone, but the Champions League remains within reach — and Milan look determined to finish the job.
