Milan, Italy, started its continental season with success, as they
defeated Celtic, Scotland, 3-1, on Thursday, in Group E of the
European League.
For the guests, Radi Kronic, Brahim Diaz, and Wence Peter
Hogg scored, while Celtic Mohamed Al-Lyons scored, but the
Italian team endured pressure near the end from the Scottish
champions to secure the three points.
Kronich opened the hat-trick by rising above defender Stephen
Welch, turning Samuel Castillo ‘s cross header into the net in
the 14th minute.
Although Celtic appeared well, the visitors created their best
chances during the first half.
Milan boosted the score when Zlatan Ibrahimovic sent a pass to
Teo Hernandez on the left side of Celtic’s goal, turning it into
Diaz, who fired a low-pitched low-kick from close range at
Celtic goalkeeper Vasilios Sparks before the end of the first half.
And the Greek substitute took part in place of Welch after the
break, and the team began launching dangerous attacks on both
sides through Diego Laxal, who was seconded by Milan, and his
fellow substitute Tom Rogic.
Al-Youssi narrowed the lead for Celtic in the 76th minute with a
header from close range after a cross pass from a corner kick, to
ignite the match as the homeowners searched for the equalizer,
but Hogg’s goal in calculated time instead of stoppage sealed
the victory for Milan.
In the other match in the group, Turkish striker Yusuf Yazici
scored 3 goals in Lille’s 4-1 victory over 10 players from Sparta
Prague, to the French team-leading the group on goal difference
from Milan.
