Rafael Leao Scores Twice as AC Milan Crush Napoli 4-0 in Serie A

AC Milan’s Rafael Leao delivered a brilliant performance on Sunday, netting two goals to help his team secure a 4-0 triumph over leaders Napoli in Serie A, moving them up to third place in the standings.

Milan now have 51 points, one ahead of Internazionale in fourth, and four behind second-placed Lazio. Meanwhile, Napoli are 20 points clear at the top of the table.

The First Step Towards Success

“This is only the first step. There are another nine Serie A games where we must have the same attitude because we threw away opportunities in the past and cannot do it again. This is a fine win, but it is only one match,” said Stefano Pioli in a post-match interview with DAZN.

The victory comes at an opportune time as the two teams prepare to face each other again in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals later this month.

Dominant Performance from Milan

Milan opened the scoring in the 17th minute when Brahim Diaz sent a through ball to Leao, who chipped it elegantly over Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret.

Diaz doubled the lead eight minutes later, his dummy leaving Napoli defender Mario Rui stranded before sending the ball into the net with a deflection.

Leao then scored his second and Milan’s third in the 59th minute, twisting and turning past three defenders before lashing his shot into the back of the net.

Alexis Saelemaekers completed the rout for Milan with a solo effort, skillfully weaving past four defenders before putting the ball through Meret’s legs to make it 4-0.

Napoli, who were without injured Victor Osimhen, their top scorer in Serie A, rarely threatened to reduce the deficit, ensuring it was the first time in over 22 years that they lost a Serie A match at home by four or more goals.

If Milan can maintain this level of performance for their remaining nine matches as Pioli demands, they will be well-placed to surpass Lazio and secure a higher finish in Serie A.