AC Milan's latest additions made an impressive start as they helped the team secure a commanding 3-1 win over Roma, propelling the Rossoneri into the Italian Cup semifinals. The match showcased the blend of fresh talent and strategic plays that paid off for Milan, reinvigorating the squad after a bustling transfer window.
The highlight of the match was undoubtedly the chemistry between debutants João Félix and Santiago Giménez, who seamlessly collaborated to score Milan's third goal. This victory positions the Rossoneri to face either cross-city rivals Inter Milan or Lazio in what promises to be a thrilling two-legged semifinal slated for April.
The encounter took place under the shadow of a pivotal clash between Inter and Lazio, scheduled for February 25, which will determine Milan's next opponent. Reverberations from the closing hours of the transfer window were felt deeply as Milan welcomed Félix, Giménez, Riccardo Sottil, and Warren Bondo on deadline day, adding depth to the squad already bolstered by the signing of Kyle Walker earlier in the season.
On his debut, Walker, having already played in the heated Milan derby, was the only new signing to start. The former Roma star, Tammy Abraham, demonstrated his expertise with two splendid goals in the first half, set up with precision by Theo Hernández. However, Roma's hope was reignited when Artem Dovbyk, coming on as a halftime substitute, found the back of the net in the 54th minute.
Reacting strategically, Milan's coach Sérgio Conceição brought forth Félix and Giménez to replace Abraham and Christian Pulisic. This tactical shift quickly paid dividends, as within minutes, Giménez delivered an exquisite pass allowing Félix to deftly chip past the goalkeeper.
Félix arrived in Milan on a loan deal from Chelsea, while Giménez was acquired in a move reportedly worth 30 million euros from Feyenoord. The latter might have the opportunity to face his former team in the imminent Champions League matches.
In other cup news, Bologna broke a 26-year spell by advancing to the semifinals after a notable triumph over Atalanta on Tuesday. They await the winner between current titleholder Juventus and Empoli in their upcoming quarterfinal on February 26.
This win is not just a testament to AC Milan's scouting prowess but also a beacon of promise as they gear up for tougher challenges in both domestic and international tournaments.
