AC Milan secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Empoli in a Serie A match on March 10, 2024. The win kept Milan in the hunt for the Scudetto, but it also highlighted some of the team’s depth issues.
Pioli’s Plan B Deployed
With Rafael Leao suspended and Olivier Giroud needing a rest, AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli opted to rotate his squad for the Empoli match. Luka Jovic and Noah Okafor were given rare starts in attack, while Fikayo Tomori returned from injury in defense.
The decision to rotate drew some criticism, as Jovic and Okafor have struggled to replicate the impact of Giroud and Leao when starting games. This was evident in the match, as Milan struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half.
Pulisic’s Strike Makes the Difference
Christian Pulisic, on loan from Chelsea, provided the all-important breakthrough for Milan in the first half. The American winger found the net with a well-taken finish, but the goal initially went under review by VAR for a possible offside. Thankfully for Milan, the goal was eventually awarded.
Empoli Push for an Equaliser
Empoli, featuring former Milan forward M’Baye Niang in their starting lineup, grew into the game as the second half progressed. They pressed for an equalizer but were unable to beat Mike Maignan in the Milan goal.
Questions Remain Over Depth
While the win keeps Milan’s title hopes alive, the performance against Empoli exposed the team’s lack of depth in attack. Jovic and Okafor failed to impress, raising questions about whether Milan should look to strengthen their forward options in the summer transfer window.
Pulisic’s performance was a bright spot, but Milan will need more from their entire squad if they are to seriously challenge for the Scudetto.
