GdS: Leao not enough for Milan and himself despite opening goal in Pisa draw

Despite Rafael Leao finding the back of the net once again, AC Milan failed to collect all three points against Pisa last night. In the end, they had to fight hard to get one point. 

Milan headed into yesterday’s clash with good confidence, having beaten Fiorentina despite what was a subpar performance. Sure enough, as highlighted by Gazzetta dello Sport this morning (see photo below), this confidence could be seen initially – but then it all fell apart.

Leao opened the scoring after just seven minutes, putting Milan four points in the clear at the top of the Serie A standings. A goal was indeed expected from the No.10: whenever he scores at San Siro, he tends to do so in a back-to-back fashion.

It happened in 2024 against Atalanta and Lecce, and then against Cagliari and Salernitana. After the goal against Fiorentina, it was Pisa’s time to experience the winger’s qualities. However, in the end, it wasn’t enough for the Rossoneri to extend their lead at the top.

One goal and chances missed

As the pink newspaper continues, despite the final result, the feeling was that Milan had made the game significantly easier after Leao’s goal. A goal which, by the way, was reminiscent of the one against Fiorentina as the shot forced the goalkeeper to dive late.

It was the Portuguese international’s fourth goal of the season, which is a rather good record considering he has only played five games (245 minutes). His average is a goal every 61 minutes, better than in any Milan season so far.

Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

However, Leao also could have done better against Pisa on several occasions. The first came in the 21st minute when, well-served in the penalty area, his shot was blocked in the final second. The second came in the 64th minute, following a splendid backheel from Youssouf Fofana.

From a very good position, Leao opted for a powerful shot that hit the crossbar instead of a low and precise effort. Bad luck or inaccuracy? Hard to say. The last chance came in the 90th minute, with a soft, turning shot that went straight at the keeper.

Four shots in total, more than anyone else in the match, because Leao doesn’t have to be a centre-forward to cause issues for the opponents. That said, as we also highlighted in our rating, the No.10 could have played an even more important role last night.