AC Milan Edge Fiorentina to Lead Tight Serie A Race

AC Milan’s Resurgence: A Night to Remember at San Siro

The Italian football scene witnessed a dramatic shift on October 20, 2025, as AC Milan surged to the summit of Serie A after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Fiorentina. This result, achieved in the seventh round of the season, not only showcased Milan’s resilience but also intensified the competition at the top of the league, with four teams separated by a single point.

How the Match Unfolded: Key Moments and Turning Points

The encounter at San Siro was marked by tension and high stakes. Fiorentina, determined to make their mark, broke the deadlock in the 55th minute. German defender Robin Gosens found the back of the net, giving the visitors a crucial lead and putting pressure on the home side.

However, Milan’s response was swift. Portuguese winger Rafael Leão, who had been under scrutiny for his recent performances, rose to the occasion. In the 63rd minute, Leão leveled the score, igniting the home crowd and shifting momentum back in Milan’s favor. The match then became a showcase of determination from both sides, with chances created at both ends.

As the clock ticked down, the decisive moment arrived. An infringement in the penalty area handed Milan a golden opportunity. Leão, stepping up to take the spot-kick in the 86th minute, converted with composure, sealing a precious win for the Rossoneri. The goal was not only crucial for the team but also deeply personal for Leão, as it ended a 513-day drought without scoring at San Siro.

Rafael Leão: The Star of the Night

Leão’s brace was the headline story of the evening. His first goal, a clinical finish, restored parity and lifted the spirits of his teammates. His second, from the penalty spot, demonstrated both skill and nerve. What made the moment even more memorable was the celebration that followed. As Leão prepared to remove his shirt in jubilation—a move that would have earned him a yellow card—center-back Matteo Gabbia intervened, stopping him just in time and sparing Milan from a potentially costly booking.

Leão’s performance was a testament to his importance in Milan’s attacking setup. The winger’s ability to deliver under pressure has often been questioned, but this night at San Siro was a reminder of his talent and potential to influence big matches.

Allegri’s Anxiety and the Weight of Expectations

Milan’s coach, Massimiliano Allegri, encapsulated the tension of the evening. According to reports, Allegri was too anxious to watch Leão’s decisive penalty, turning his back to the pitch during the moment of truth. His relief and subsequent celebration mirrored the emotions of Milan supporters worldwide, who have grown accustomed to drama and suspense in recent seasons.

This victory, which lifted Milan to 16 points, was particularly significant as it marked the first time since September 2022 that the club has led the Serie A table. The psychological boost from reclaiming top spot cannot be underestimated, especially given the fierce competition from rivals Inter Milan, Napoli, and Roma, each sitting just one point behind.

The Tightest Serie A Race in Years

The outcome of this match has added another layer of intrigue to the 2025 Serie A campaign. With Milan on 16 points and three major rivals—Inter, Napoli, and Roma—locked at 15, the title race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Every match, every goal, and every decision could have far-reaching consequences as the season unfolds.

The narrow margins at the top reflect the overall improvement in the quality and competitiveness of the league. Teams are better prepared, and the tactical battles between managers have become more intense, making every weekend a must-watch for fans of Italian football.

What’s Next for Milan and Their Rivals?

Looking ahead, Milan faces a challenging run of fixtures that will test their credentials as title contenders. Maintaining momentum will be crucial, especially with the chasing pack showing no signs of slowing down. The return to the top of the table is a statement of intent, but sustaining this position will require consistency, discipline, and a bit of fortune.

For Fiorentina, the defeat is a setback, but their performance at San Siro demonstrated that they can compete with the league’s best. Robin Gosens’ goal and the team’s overall display will give them confidence as they aim to climb the standings in the coming weeks.

Conclusion: A Season Poised for Drama

AC Milan’s dramatic win over Fiorentina has set the stage for an enthralling Serie A season. With the league table finely balanced and several teams in contention, fans can look forward to more nights of excitement and unpredictability. The performance of Rafael Leão, the tactical decisions from Allegri, and the resilience of the Milan squad all point to a campaign that could go down to the wire.

For the latest updates and detailed match reports, visit Gazzetta dello Sport and Football Italia.

As the battle for the Scudetto heats up, all eyes will be on San Siro and the title challengers, ensuring that the 2025 Serie A season remains one of the most captivating in recent history.