AC Milan secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Lecce on Friday, joining Torino at the top of Serie A with 11 points. The win, following their derby triumph over Inter Milan, featured three goals in just five first-half minutes from Alvaro Morata, Theo Hernandez, and Christian Pulisic.
Milan’s superior goal difference puts them ahead of Torino, although they have played one game more. Despite Lecce’s struggles this season, having not won their first three matches, Milan could have increased their lead as both Tammy Abraham and Ruben Loftus-Cheek hit the woodwork.
The match had a downside for Milan, with teenage defender Davide Bartesaghi receiving a red card for a reckless challenge just five minutes after coming on.
“It was important to win after the derby,” said Milan coach Paulo Fonseca, who faced criticism after a recent heavy loss to Liverpool. “The players knew what needed to be done and delivered.”
Milan now prepares to face Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League on Tuesday, with key players in excellent form. Pulisic’s late goal marked his fourth of the season, while Hernandez was instrumental, providing the assist for Morata’s opener and scoring the second.
Morata, who had been a fitness concern, was substituted as a precaution to ensure he is ready for the upcoming Champions League match.
Meanwhile, reigning champions Inter have the opportunity to level points with Milan and Torino when they face Udinese on Saturday, looking to bounce back after their derby loss. Lecce, after another tough week, sits just above the relegation zone.
