Match Report: Genoa 1-2 AC Milan – Serie A, 17 May 2026

AC Milan bounced back from consecutive draws with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Genoa at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on 17 May 2026, keeping their Champions League qualification hopes alive. Goals from Rafael Leão and Junior Messias either side of half-time proved decisive, despite a late Genoa strike that set up a nervy finale.

Match overview

Milan arrived in Genoa knowing only a win would keep them within touching distance of the top four. Genoa, comfortably mid-table, had little to play for but pride. The opening 20 minutes saw Milan dominate possession but struggle to break down a compact Genoa defence organised by coach Alberto Gilardino.

First half – Leão opens the account

The breakthrough came in the 34th minute. A clever one-two between Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leão on the left flank freed the Portuguese winger. He cut inside onto his right foot and curled a precise shot beyond the reach of Genoa goalkeeper Josep Martínez into the far corner. It was Leão’s 14th league goal of the campaign and a moment of pure quality.

Second half – Messias doubles the lead

Milan doubled their advantage just after the hour mark. Theo Hernández delivered a raiding overlapping run and pulled the ball back to the edge of the area, where Junior Messias met it first time with a low drive that deflected slightly past Martínez. The goal gave Milan a comfortable cushion.

Late scare for the Rossoneri

Genoa refused to surrender. With 15 minutes remaining, substitute Caleb Ekuban rose highest to meet a corner from Morten Frendrup, powering a header past Mike Maignan. The goal sparked a frantic finish, with Genoa throwing bodies forward. Milan goalkeeper Maignan was called into action twice in stoppage time, first to deny a long-range strike from Junior Gamba and then to claim a dangerous cross under pressure.

Standout players

• Rafael Leão (Milan) – Outstanding dribbling, goal and key passes.
• Mike Maignan (Milan) – Crucial late saves secured the points.
• Junior Gamba (Genoa) – Energetic performance, almost scored a stunner.

Table impact

Milan climbed to fifth place, level on points with fourth-placed Juventus but behind on goal difference with one match remaining. Genoa remained 12th, safe from relegation. The result keeps Milan’s hopes of a top-four finish alive heading into the final weekend.

Match date: 17 May 2026, 18:00 CET. Venue: Stadio Luigi Ferraris, Genoa.