Following the Rossonerri’s vital 2-1 victory against Roma at the Stadio Olimpico, Milan winger Rafael Leao provided his insight on the significance of the victory.
Pioli’s side managed to obtain an early lead as a slick one-two between Englishman Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Olivier Giroud enable the Frenchman to find space in-behind. However, Portuguese shot-stopper Rui Patricio clipped the veteran striker when stepping off his line, resulting in Milan being handed a penalty.
The 34 year-old stepped up to the spot and dispatched his shot past the Giallorossi custodian to break the ice under the ten minute mark, increasing his tally to four goals in three Serie A appearances.
Despite central defender being sent off in the the 61st minute after being given a second yellow, Milan remained unfazed as Leao put an end to his scoreless streak with a scrumptious acrobatic kick following a fine centre from full-back Davide Calabria.
With Milan securing all three points within the Capital, the Milanese side continue to the set the pace in the race for the title as they sustain first place within the standings after a perfect start to the season, consisting of three wins out of three matches heading into the international break.
While speaking to Sky Italia, via MilanNews, Leao touched upon his individual display against Mourinho’s Roma and the club’s flawless start to the campaign:
“It was a goal I’ve been looking for for three years. It was nice to win here, it was difficult to win in Rome, also for the environment. We have three more points to stay first in the standings”.
On the 10: “I knew it was an important number and today I feel more responsible for having this shirt. I took the 10 without pressure to show how much good I’ve already done
On the team: “Milan is an always strong team, every year the club tries to recruit the best players. The club has done a great job, the players who have arrived are of quality and have raised their level.”
On what he has improved: “I’m more responsible with and without the ball. With the ball I can make a difference, but without the ball I have to defend better: I have to thank Pioli who lets me see where I can improve”.
Julian Faustini Ι GIFN
