Liverpool triumphs in Champions League return against AC Milan: 3-1 victory at San Siro

Liverpool marked their successful return to the Champions League with a 3:1 victory over AC Milan at the San Siro after an early setback. Arne Slot's team fell behind just three minutes in when Christian Pulisic capitalized on a defensive mishap by Konstantinos Tsimikas to score the opening goal. However, Slot witnessed an impressively strong response from his team, who managed to equalize with two set-piece goals in the first half. Mohamed Salah twice struck the frame of Milan's goal, and Cody Gakpo displayed impressive ball control after starting on the left side in place of Luis Diaz. Milan's goalkeeper Mike Maignan had to be substituted due to an injury in the first half. The 19-year-old Lorenzo Torriani replaced him and was unable to do much against Liverpool's third goal. Dominik Szoboszlai completed impressive groundwork by Gakpo, securing three points for Slot's team in what is likely the most difficult away match of the new league phase. Rotation was a dominant theme following Liverpool's defeat to Nottingham Forest over the weekend. Slot made only minor changes to his starting eleven against Milan, and Gakpo fully capitalized on his opportunity. The Liverpool coach had relied on the same attacking trio in his first four competitive matches, but after Gakpo's strong performance at the San Siro, Diaz may see his position threatened. Gakpo, rarely used as a left-winger under former coach Jürgen Klopp, showcased the qualities on this position that he had already demonstrated during the European Championship. After four consecutive substitute appearances, Gakpo made a significant impression from the start. He was dynamic, direct, and a constant threat on Liverpool's left side, as his touches on the ball demonstrated. He worked hard off the ball, but his ball control and creativity were crucial in regaining momentum after a shaky start. He capped off his evening with an excellent assist during a quick Liverpool attack. Following a pass from Szoboszlai, he maneuvered around Strahinja Pavlovic and set up his teammate perfectly. Liverpool's first two goals could have easily led to confusion. Both came from precise set-pieces: a cross from a full-back, a powerful header from close range by a center-back. Liverpool defended strongly and turned the early deficit thanks to assists from Trent Alexander-Arnold and Tsimikas. First, Alexander-Arnold delivered a perfect cross for Konate, who rose unmarked in front of Fikayo Tomori to head it in. Shortly before halftime, it was a corner from Tsimikas that Van Dijk converted. The Liverpool captain evaded his marker and scored with another header. Despite the storied clashes between Liverpool and Milan, this match may be remembered as the "Battle of the 4-2-4 Defensive Block." Both teams opted for a defensive strategy executed with precision. While Milan initially controlled the game through their defensive formation, Gravenberch and Mac Allister found gaps to initiate Liverpool's offensive actions. Liverpool's defense stabilized over the course of the game, forcing Milan into errors. Ultimately, it was Liverpool who prevailed thanks to their patience and strategic determination.