AC Milan vs Hellas Verona: Nkunku Brace Sends Milan Top of Serie A

There was no better way for AC Milan to conclude a demanding and intense year than a dominant home victory in front of a packed San Siro. On Serie A matchday 17, the final round of fixtures of 2025, the Rossoneri defeated Hellas Verona 3-0. The win temporarily sent Massimiliano Allegri’s side to the top of the Serie A table, pending the remaining weekend matches. It also reinforced Milan’s growing confidence as the new year approaches.

Verona’s Resistance Tests Milan’s Patience

The opening stages of the match proved challenging for the home side. Hellas Verona arrived with a clear plan and defended with discipline, compactness, and intensity. Milan dominated possession early but struggled to find space through Verona’s well-drilled defensive lines. Ruben Loftus-Cheek registered the first meaningful effort in the 20th minute, yet his half-volley deflected wide. Despite steady pressure, frustration slowly crept into Milan’s play.

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Pulisic Breaks the Deadlock at the Perfect Moment

Just when the first half appeared destined to end goalless, Milan delivered the breakthrough. In stoppage time, Luka Modrić curled in a precise corner that Adrien Rabiot flicked on at the near post. Christian Pulisic reacted sharply at close range and volleyed the ball home. The goal lifted the San Siro crowd and rewarded Milan’s persistence against stubborn opposition.

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Nkunku Changes the Game After the Break

The second half began with immediate drama, as Verona defender Victor Nelsson brought down Christopher Nkunku inside the penalty area. The French forward stepped up confidently and converted the spot kick to double Milan’s advantage. That moment appeared to unlock Nkunku completely. Five minutes later, Modrić fired a powerful shot from distance that struck the post after Montipò’s save, and Nkunku reacted fastest to tap in the rebound for his second goal.

Allegri Praises Maturity and Growth

Massimiliano Allegri highlighted both the performance and the mental strength of his squad after the match. He praised Nkunku’s determination and noted the team’s improved composure in the second half. According to Allegri, Milan played with tension before the break but controlled the game with authority after scoring. He also emphasized the importance of winning against a tricky and fast Verona side.

Milan Control the Match Until the Final Whistle

After the third goal, Milan dictated the tempo and limited Verona to half chances. Loftus-Cheek came close to extending the lead during a one-on-one opportunity, but Montipò denied him with a solid save. Verona briefly thought they had scored through Gift Orban, yet the referee disallowed the goal for offside and a foul on Mike Maignan. Milan remained organized and calm throughout the closing stages.

A Clean Sheet That Boosts Confidence

The clean sheet carried particular significance for Milan, especially given Verona’s recent form. The defensive trio of Tomori, De Winter, and Pavlović worked efficiently, while Maignan stayed alert when called upon. Allegri also handed 19-year-old defender David Odogu his Serie A debut late in the match, underlining the comfort of Milan’s lead and the coach’s trust in youth.

Milan Look Ahead to 2026 with Momentum

The victory moved Milan to 35 points, two clear of rivals Inter before their match later in the day, while Verona remained in the relegation zone. More importantly, the performance showcased Milan’s balance, maturity, and attacking depth. The Rossoneri return to training immediately, with preparations underway for their next league fixture away at Cagliari on January 2. Milan close 2025 with momentum, belief, and renewed ambition.