Nkunku’s Brace Lifts Milan to the Serie A Summit
AC Milan climbed to the top of the Serie A table on Sunday, thanks to a commanding 3-0 victory over Hellas Verona. The standout performance came from Christopher Nkunku, whose first-half brace set the tone and left Verona chasing a deserved result in a game that Milan controlled from start to finish.
First Half: Neymar-like Patience, Nkunku’s Finishing Precision
The opening 45 minutes offered a familiar Milan script: patient build-up, compact defending, and a punch of ruthlessness when a scoring opportunity arose. Verona’s disciplined low block frustrated Milan in the opening exchanges, but Nkunku’s timing and movement broke the deadlock just before the break. The French forward received a well-weighted pass on the edge of the area, feinted, and found the bottom corner with a precise left-foot finish that left Verona’s goalkeeper with little chance.
That strike didn’t just give Milan a lead; it shifted the dynamic. Milan’s attackers began to run into space as Verona pressed higher, creating pockets where Nkunku could exploit with his clever off-the-ball runs and clinical finishing. The result was a second goal before halftime, a sharp turnover and a fast counter that unfolded with textbook efficiency. Nkunku finished from close range after a low cross from the left, illustrating his growing chemistry with Milan’s attacking quartet.
Second Half: Control and Consolidation
After the break, Milan extended their advantage through sustained pressure and smarter game management. Verona’s resistance evolved into damage limitation as Milan kept the heat on with relentless ball circulation and high pressing when out of possession. The hosts were not deterred by the late tempo, continuing to press through midfield runners and maintain superior ball retention. The third goal arrived through a well-worked team move that culminated in a clinical finish by a peak-form Nkunku, sealing his match ball and leaving Verona with little more than a late consolation to chase in an open, end-to-end second period.
Nkunku: The Real Difference Maker
Nkunku has quickly established himself as Milan’s go-to attacking option in recent weeks. His brace against Verona was a reminder of the qualities that make him a standout: intelligent movement, poacher’s instincts in the box, and the ability to strike with both power and precision. His tally for the day not only boosted his personal goal-scoring account but also re-affirmed Milan’s title ambitions as they leapfrogged Inter to briefly claim the top spot ahead of the international break.
What This Win Means for Milan’s Season
With Inter and Napoli waiting in the wings for the next fixtures, Milan’s league position remains delicate and competitive. The victory over Verona showed the squad’s growing cohesion, particularly in attack, where Nkunku’s partnership with his colleagues is starting to bear fruit. The coaching staff will hope to maintain this momentum, balancing intensity with smart rotation to handle the gruelling league schedule ahead.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, Milan’s path to silverware will hinge on consistent performances against both rivals and smaller clubs. Nkunku’s form provides a potent baseline, but the team will need contributions across the pitch to sustain a title challenge. The Verona win has reinvigorated the fanbase and sent a clear signal that Milan intend to contest the race at the business end of the campaign.
