Torino 3-1 AC Milan: Five things we learned – defensive struggles and perplexing tactics | OneFootball

AC Milan travelled to Turin with the hopes of clinching a win in their last away game of the season. However, Torino prevailed 3-1 as the Rossoneri displayed their defensive weaknesses once again, with a lot of negatives to take from the game.

Stefano Pioli’s men had nothing to play for, having already secured second place, while Torino were fighting for a potential spot in the Conference League. The difference in motivation was clearly visible on the pitch.

Torino opened the scoresheet after 26 minutes with a nice header from Duvan Zapata, and they then managed to double their lead just before the break through Ivan Ilic. To make matters worse, Ricardo Rodriguez scored less than a minute into the second half to make it 3-0.

Milan managed to pull one back from the spot, with Ismael Bennacer converting the penalty in the 55th minute. However, they failed to make the game more interesting as things were not clicking in attack for Pioli’s side. Below are five things we learned…

1. Defensive overhaul needed

It would perhaps be harsh to single out one of Milan’s defenders for the performance last night, as it seemed more like a collective breakdown than anything. Pierre Kalulu and Filippo Terracciano were both in the starting XI but failed to impress, which was a shame.

Things were even worse in the centre of the department as Malick Thiaw and Fikayo Tomori were both very poor. The German was at fault for the first goal and didn’t really assert himself in the game. The Englishman, meanwhile, was at fault for the second and continued to complain a lot (more so than defending, seemingly).

Given the defensive performances throughout the season, even when accounting for the injuries, it just seems like an overhaul is needed and all of the players mentioned should be considered sellable if the right offer comes.

2. Bennacer looking a lot better

The Algerian was injured for quite a while and he has had some poor games following his injury, which was to be expected. However, in recent weeks, he has picked up the pace by showcasing some of his abilities.

Against Torino, he was probably the best of the bunch along with Christian Pulisic, who was named the MOTM in our player ratings. Bennacer’s penalty was indeed very calm and composed, scoring his second goal of the season.

Rumours have suggested that Bennacer is considered sellable, but it would be interesting to see if he can be a leader for this side with a full pre-season and proper form. He certainly has the qualities to help Milan do better, not to mention that he’s still only 26 years old.

3. Pulisic the only one trying

It was not a pleasant performance up front for Milan, with Luka Jovic struggling a lot and barely having any chances it’s fair to say.

Noah Okafor got the nod over Rafael Leao on the left flank and started the game well, beating his man on multiple occasions and nearly scoring a great goal. However, he became more anonymous as the game went on and was rightfully subbed off in the second half.

Pulisic, on the other hand, was the only one trying to make something happen as he won the penalty and hit the crossbar before that. The American was also involved in a few more dangerous situations, but ultimately was missing that edge in his game to make a bigger impact.

4. Jovic is not the answer

With Giroud heading to sunny LA, the management has to find a replacement for the Frenchman. Even if Jovic were to stay beyond the summer, he’s most certainly not going to be the main man up front for the Rossoneri.

The striker has proved crucial off the bench, scoring several goals, but he has failed to replicate that when given the nod from start. We saw this against Torino as well, although you could perhaps argue that he didn’t get much service either.

All things considered, though, he has probably done enough to earn himself a renewal and with a new manager as well as playing stile, he might be even more useful.

5. Last chance for Pioli to go out with a win

The manager has had his fair share of failed decisions this season and the tactics against Torino will have to be added to the tally, as Milan looked toothless for most of the game. Both of the full-backs were also inverted and that caused defensive chaos in some situations, with the players all over the place.

Whether his tactics were the problem or the players themselves doesn’t really matter at this stage. Against Salernitana, he will have the chance to end his Milan tenure with a win in front of the home fans at San Siro.

He will need to find a way to motivate these players for one last game, as it would be a shame to close the chapter without a win. Also considering that a few players will be making their last games for the club.