Rafael Leão Sparks AC Milan’s Comeback Victory Over Fiorentina

AC Milan secured a crucial 2-1 victory against Fiorentina on October 15, 2023, moving them to the top of the Serie A standings. The match saw Rafael Leão shine with two goals, leading the Rossoneri to overcome an early deficit after Robin Gosens had put Fiorentina ahead shortly before the hour mark.

Leão, making his first start of the season after recovering from injury, demonstrated his importance to the team by quickly equalizing with a long-range shot. He then converted a penalty, awarded after a foul on Santiago Giménez, to complete the comeback. “This is the Rafa that we need. He is an amazing talent,” remarked Luka Modric, who joined Milan in July after a successful career at Real Madrid. “For me, he’s one of the best players in the world. And he can still improve.”

This win puts Milan one point clear of rivals Inter Milan, Napoli, and Roma, showcasing a remarkable turnaround under coach Massimiliano Allegri. Last season, Milan finished eighth, which prevented them from participating in European competitions. The victory against Fiorentina places further pressure on coach Stefano Pioli, as Fiorentina remains winless in the league.

Como’s Nico Paz Shines in Victory Over Juventus

In a separate match, Como triumphed over Juventus with a 2-0 scoreline, handing the Bianconeri their first loss of the season. Young Argentine playmaker Nico Paz was instrumental in the victory, scoring one goal and assisting another. Paz’s performance has drawn attention, particularly from Real Madrid, who sold him to Como but retain the option to buy him back by June 2027.

Paz has been directly involved in eight of Como’s nine goals this season, with four goals and four assists. His standout performances have positioned him among Europe’s elite, alongside players like Vinícius Júnior and Luis Díaz, who have also recorded similar statistics. Como coach Cesc Fabregas commented on Paz’s potential, stating, “Nico can go as far as he wants to. He’s got the talent and the physical qualities.”

Paz’s first assist came early in the match, delivering a precise cross that allowed Marc-Oliver Kempf to score following a corner. Later in the game, he showcased his skill by cutting inside and curling a shot into the far corner, a goal that left spectators in awe. The victory marked Como’s first win over Juventus in nearly 75 years, ending a 23-match winless streak against the storied club.

Bologna and Other Match Highlights

Bologna climbed to fifth place in the league after defeating Cagliari 2-0 with goals from Emil Holm and Riccardo Orsolini, who leads the league with five goals. In contrasting fortunes, ten-man Parma managed to secure a 0-0 draw against Genoa, with goalkeeper Zion Suzuki saving a penalty in stoppage time. Genoa remains winless, increasing pressure on coach Patrick Vieira.

Both Atalanta and Lazio also played to a 0-0 stalemate, contributing to the competitive landscape of this season’s Serie A. With the league intensifying, AC Milan’s resurgence and the emergence of young talents like Nico Paz highlight the dynamic nature of Italian football this season.