RABIOT GOAL KEEPS MILAN ON COURSE FOR CHAMPIONS LEAGUE QUALIFICATION

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By: Fasasi Hammad

Adrien Rabiot strengthened AC Milan’s push for Champions League qualification by scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Verona on Sunday, a result that lifted the Rossoneri back into second place in Serie A.

The French midfielder struck in the 41st minute at the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi, calmly finishing after winning possession in midfield and combining with Rafael Leão in a well-worked move that proved decisive in an otherwise uninspiring contest. The goal was Rabiot’s sixth league strike of the season.

“The most important thing is winning and collecting the points needed to reach our target, even though we made many mistakes today. We could have played much better,” Rabiot said afterwards. “We must remain focused on qualifying for the Champions League.”

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The win allowed Milan to capitalise on dropped points by rivals Como and Roma, moving them eight points clear of fifth and sixth place with five matches left, putting them in a strong position to secure a top-four finish.

The seven-time European champions are aiming to return to continental competition after missing out last season, a disappointing campaign that led to Massimiliano Allegri’s return as head coach.

Allegri, who has already begun planning for next season with club officials, also dismissed speculation linking him with the vacant Italy job, insisting his focus remains solely on Milan.

“No one from the federation has contacted me, and my mind is entirely on Milan. We started a project together and will continue it together,” he said.

For Verona, the defeat marked a fifth consecutive loss, leaving them bottom of the table and edging closer to relegation, as they remain 10 points adrift of safety with the season nearing its conclusion.

Elsewhere, Juventus occupy the final Champions League spot and could extend their advantage over Como and Roma with a win against Bologna.