The AC Milan coach commented on the 2-2 draw against Napoli, after his team lost 2 goals advantage: “The two goals scored are too few.”
AC Milan left Maradona Stadium with one point after a 2-2 draw against Napoli, but with the regret of losing a 2-0 lead in the half-time. Coach Stefano Pioli commented after the match, “The mistake we made was conceding the first goal, that put the opponent back in the game. Considering what we created today, the two goals we scored are just too few. It’s disappointing to leave here with just one point.”
In particular, Leao and Giroud sought explanations after being substituted. Pioli explained, “I made the substitutions to bring in fresh legs after three intensive matches in one week. I saw them tired and made the changes to try to win. Leao asked for explanations, and I will give them, as it’s only fair.”
In the second half, Milan’s intensity dropped, partly due to fatigue. Pioli said, “After taking a 2-0 lead, it’s normal to be more relaxed. On Politano’s goal, we could have done better in many aspects, but in the second half, we didn’t stop playing, and Napoli also has great quality. We dominated in the first half, less so in the second.”
The team lacked efficiency in front of the goal. Pioli stated, “I hope this is just a phase. What matters is being able to create a lot. We filled the box better because we built up our play from the back, but we need to continue improving to be competitive for the win.”
Pioli’s future as Milan’s coach is tied to the season’s objectives. He commented on this, saying, “The fate of a coach is always in the hands of the club, and it’s normal to start with the ambition to win the championship. Like us, there are 3-4 other teams that can compete. But at this moment, I’m not thinking about my future. Winning the title would be extraordinary because winning in Italy is always challenging/ To win, you need consistency, discipline, and quality.”
There were many injuries in the Milan squad. Pioli explained, “This is a negative note. Kalulu wouldn’t have played if Kjaer had been well. We don’t understand if it’s a knock or something muscular. Pulisic was having a great game but felt a hamstring discomfort, and it was important not to risk him. Pellegrino suffered a severe ankle sprain.”
