AC Milan returned without shining with success against the relegated Genoa (2-0), thanks to Rafael Leao and Junior Messias, to defend his seat as provisional leader of Serie A, Friday during the 33rd day. After two disappointing 0-0 against Bologna and Torino, this precious victory allows the Rossoneri to preserve two margin points over Inter Milan, winners just before at La Spezia (3-1) and who have a late game to play. .
In a full San Siro (70,000 spectators), the Rossoneri found their way to the nets at the start of the match thanks to a recovery from Leao, upon receiving a cross from Pierre Kalulu (11th), then at the end of the game by Junior Messias in two stages (87th). In the prolonged absence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, still injured in a knee, Olivier Giroud, tenured at the forefront of the Milan attack, struggled to obtain opportunities. He was replaced after a rather lackluster hour of play, just after sending a volley over goal (57′).
The Rossoneri, failing to set the pace, were sometimes jostled. But Mike Maignan was able to remain vigilant, to avoid an own goal from his defender Matteo Gabbia (59th) then on a header from Hernani (90 + 3rd). Not enough to spoil the pleasure of San Siro which will refuel on Tuesday with the derby in the semi-final second leg of the Italian Cup (0-0 in the first leg).