Rafael Leao’s Strike Leads Milan to Victory

Rafael Leao’s first-half goal secured a vital 1-0 win for AC Milan against Girona, putting them on the brink of automatic qualification for the Champions League last 16. Leao, the Portugal forward, struck decisively in the 30th minute, meeting Ismael Bennacer’s through ball before maneuvering into the box and firing a powerful shot into the top corner leaving Girona’s goalkeeper, Paulo Gazzaniga, helpless. Milan claimed all three points in a hard-fought encounter.

Girona thought they had equalized when Bryan Gil scored a stunning strike from outside the box just before the hour mark. However, the referee ruled his effort out for offside, maintaining Milan’s lead. Leao came close to doubling his tally in the 65th minute but saw his curling shot narrowly miss the target, grazing the side of the post. With the win, Milan sits in sixth place in the group with 15 points, securing one of the eight automatic qualification spots for the knockout rounds.

They now face a crucial trip to Dinamo Zagreb next week where a positive result will ensure their place in the last 16. On the other hand, Girona with only three points from their campaign have mathematically eliminated themselves and cannot progress to the play-off stage. AC Milan’s solid performance and Rafael Leao’s crucial goal have given them a strong advantage in their bid to advance while Girona’s Champions League journey has ended in disappointment.