Despite Nikola Krstovic scoring twice, Sergio Conceicao’s incredible comeback from a 2-0 deficit to defeat Lecce 3-2 with an own goal and a brace from Christian Pulisic secured his Milan status.
After 45 seconds, Theo Hernandez rolled across for a tap-in from Santiago Gimenez, giving early lead to Milan but VAR ruled the Mexico international offside.
A counterattack was started by a careless pass from Tijjani Reijnders behind Jimenez, which Krstovic completed with a spectacular shot from 20 yards out.
Gimenez was unable to keep a Theo Hernandez assist on goal, and Yunus Musah forced a stop from Wladimiro Falcone.
When Matteo Gabbia was completely unmarked to sweep in the volley on a free kick from Theo Hernandez to the near post, he believed he had put Milan level, but VAR confirmed he had also strayed offside.
Lecce also posed a threat, with Santiago Pierotti missing from a very tempting position following a mistake by Malick Thiaw, and Krstovic finishing a give-and-go with Guilbert to hit the near post from a very tight angle.
The goalie was attentive to Gimenez’s back-heel flick at the near post after a Musah pass, and Gimenez’s header was directly at Falcone.
Gimenez nearly equalized when he turned with his back to goal and wriggled a finish between a defender’s knees to thump the base of the near post after Rafael Leao was brought in for the restart.
But with a brilliant counterattack, Lecce increased their lead. Tete Morente crossed from the right, and Krstovic was largely unfazed and finished with a 12-yard shot.
But thanks to a little of luck, the Rossoneri’s hopes were revived in the 68th minute. Gallo pushed Joao Felix’s first-time attempt into the back of his own net after Leao charged down the left and pulled back a cross to close to the penalty spot.
Milan was then given the opportunity to tie the score from the penalty spot three minutes later. Federico Baschirotto’s really awkward challenge inside the box caused the American to fall while trying to escape down the right side. He took responsibility from 12 yards out and sent it home with such force that Falcone had no chance.
From a deft angle, Leao stung Falcone’s gloves beneath the bar. He then set up Pulisic for a cushioned volley off the inside of his right boot after his cross found him at the back stick, turning the game totally around.
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