AC Milan overcame a stubborn challenge from Lazio to secure a crucial win and move back to the summit of Serie A. In the first half, Maurizio Sarri’s side looked poised to break the deadlock — powerful efforts from Gila and Zaccagni forced the Rossoneri into several nervy moments.

But after the break, the momentum shifted. Milan emerged with renewed intent and produced a flowing, beautifully executed attack in the 51st minute: Saelemaekers combined with N’Kunku, Tomori delivered a pinpoint cross, and Leão coolly finished the move to put the hosts ahead.

Lazio pushed for an equaliser and even appealed for a stoppage-time penalty, but after a VAR check, the referee waved play on. Despite their head coach being sent off, Milan held firm, showing composure and resilience to protect their slender advantage.

2025-26, Italy - Serie A

AC Milan - Lazio 1:0 (0:0)
Goals: Rafael Leão, 51 (1:0)

AC Milan: Maignan; Tomori; Pavlović S.; Bartesaghi; Fofana Y. (Loftus-Cheek, 65); Rabiot; Modric; Nkunku (Ricci S., 82); Gabbia; Saelemaekers; Rafael Leão
Substitution: Loftus-Cheek (from 65); Ricci S. (from 82)
Bench: Terracciano; Estupiñán; De Winter K.; Odogu; Jashari A.
Yellow Cards: Tomori 26; Gabbia 64; Ricci S. 89

Lazio: Provedel; Pellegrini Lu. (Tavares N., 85); Romagnoli; Gila; Basic Т. (Noslin, 85); Vecino (Dele-Bashiru F., 62); Guendouzi; Zaccagni; Marušić; Isaksen G. (Pedro, 70); Dia B. (Castellanos, 62)
Substitution: Dele-Bashiru F. (from 62); Castellanos (from 62); Pedro (from 70); Tavares N. (from 85); Noslin (from 85)
Bench: Mandas; Furlanetto; Provstgaard; Belahyane Reda; Gil Patricio; Lazzari M.
Yellow Cards: Pellegrini Lu. 57; Romagnoli 72; Zaccagni 90