Gianluca Giroud steps into goal as Milan edge Genoa after double sending-off
Olivier Giroud, primarily Milan’s veteran striker, found himself in an unusual role when both goalkeepers were dismissed in a dramatic late turn of events against Genoa. The match required a human moment of improvisation after Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan was sent off in the 97th minute for a controversial kneeling incident involving Caleb Ekuban. With the number of players on the pitch suddenly reduced, Milan quickly faced the unfamiliar scenario of needing a substitute keeper to protect a slender lead late in stoppage time.
Not long after, Genoa’s goalkeeper Josep Martínez was also shown a red card following a foul on Fikayo Tomori while attempting to intervene on a corner in a bid to level the score. The sequence of dismissals left Milan briefly with a numerical disadvantage and a goalkeeper-less back line that demanded resilience from everyone on the field. In the chaos of the final minutes, Giroud stepped forward from his striking duties, donning gloves and taking up the gloves of a goalie in an impromptu show of versatility.
As the drama intensified, Giroud delivered a timely intervention beyond the penalty area. He charged off his line, cleared the ball away from George Puscas, who was rushing toward Milan’s goal, and preserved the advantage for Milan. His decisive clearance under pressure underscored the veteran forward’s willingness to sacrifice front-line duties for the good of the team in a moment that demanded cool-headed leadership under fire.
Six minutes earlier, the decisive moment had arrived when American star and former Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic found the back of the net in the 87th minute. The goal proved pivotal, giving Milan a crucial 1-0 lead and helping the side climb to the top of Serie A with 21 points from eight matches. The late turnaround showcased Milan’s resilience and depth, turning a tense fixture into three points that could have significant implications for their early-season standing.
With the international break on the horizon, Stefano Pioli’s squad now looks toward a high-stakes league clash against Juventus scheduled for October 22. The result was not just three points but a statement about Milan’s ability to adapt when plans are disrupted and roles are redefined on the fly. The management of the match, the players’ readiness to switch positions, and the performance of both the regular players and substitutes will be analyzed in the weeks to come as Milan’s title-contending ambitions continue to unfold.
Source: Goal