AC Milan had to come from behind twice to beat Serie D side Lumezzane in this afternoon’s friendly at Milanello, but they eventually prevailed 3-2.
Milan took to the field in a 3-5-2 formation that featured the likes of Tomori, Gabbia, Pobega, Krunic, Tonali, Origi and Rebic, but the away side took somewhat of a shock early lead through a nice touch and finish inside the box by Spini.
The Rossoneri drew themselves level early in the second half and it took a bit of individual brilliance by Yacine Adli, with the Frenchman going on a direct run deep into the box and showing good poise to finish past the goalkeeper.
However, parity did not last long as a wonderful strike from Mauri beat the substitute goalkeeper Mirante and sailed into the top corner.
An injection of fresh legs came from Pioli as Kalulu, Thiaw, Bozzolan, Foglio, Eletu, Gala, Alesi, Lazetic and El Hilali all came on, and it was Alesi who equalised. He collected a feed from Eletu after the midfielder seized a loose pass, spinning and firing in.
Finally, the comeback was complete inside the final few minutes as Eletu turned from provider to scorer, taking control inside the box and finishing with power after some disorganisation at the back.
It was a competitive run-out in the end for a mostly young group, and one that certainly shows the importance of match rhythm. The next two friendlies against Arsenal and Liverpool will certainly provide further useful yardsticks.
