TIME MACHINE: MONZA v AC MILAN

Matchday 11 is fast approaching, which comes just days before the fourth round of the Champions League. Our upcoming challenge is at the U-Power Stadium in Monza, where we'll face a team coached by former Rossoneri player Alessandro Nesta. The connection between the Rossoneri and the Brianzoli is strong, thanks to the Berlusconi family and Adriano Galliani, who have been key figures in our club's history and are now vital to the Biancorosso club. In memory of Silvio, this Time Machine revisits the friendly match played on 8 August 2023, in Monza during the inaugural edition of the Trofeo Silvio Berlusconi.

Returning from their American tour in the summer of 2023, where they faced Real Madrid, Juventus, and Barcelona, the Rossoneri took to the field at the Brianteo for a special friendly match against Monza. This match served as an opportunity for Pioli's team to further prepare for the league, gain valuable minutes on the pitch, and integrate all the new signings. The game opened up in the 28th minute when Pulisic won a penalty after being fouled by D'Ambrosio. Although the American was initially saved by Di Gregorio, he calmly netted the rebound to give AC Milan a 1-0 lead. However, Palladino's Biancorossi quickly equalized through Colpani. In the second half, there were chances for Leão and Loftus-Cheek, a crucial save from Maignan, and two late efforts from Reijnders.

Most notably, in the 79th minute, Noah Okafor and Samu Chukwueze made their Rossoneri debuts, getting acquainted with their new teammates. The match continued until the 94th minute, but neither team could find the decisive spark, leading to a penalty shootout. For AC Milan, Reijnders, Okafor, Tomori, Loftus-Cheek, Colombo, and Thiaw all stepped up to take their penalties, and each one converted flawlessly. On the other hand, the home side faced heartbreak when Birindelli's final attempt hit the crossbar, handing AC Milan the victory and, consequently, the first Trofeo Silvio Berlusconi.

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