Samuel Chukwueze played a key role in AC Milan's triumphant 3-1 victory over Monza, ensuring the Rossoneri ended their preseason on a high by retaining the Silvio Berlusconi Trophy in front of a packed San Siro, Soccernet.ng reports.
Initially on the bench, Chukwueze was introduced at halftime, replacing Belgian winger Alexis Saelemaekers with the score locked at 1-1.
Monza had levelled the match following an early Milan lead, leaving the game finely poised when the Nigerian star stepped onto the pitch.
The first half saw Milan take the lead through a deflected rabona from Saelemaekers, only for Daniel Maldini to equalize before the break.
However, Milan's substitutes proved decisive in the second half. Luka Jovic found the net soon after coming on, and Tijjani Reijnders secured the victory with a stunning long-range effort.
Chukwueze's impact was immediate. His creativity and pace caused problems for the Monza defence, and he was instrumental in Milan's attacking play. Notably, Chukwueze set up a golden opportunity for Noah Okafor, who was denied only by a brilliant save.
Paulo Fonseca's starting lineup featured a mix of established stars like Rafael Leao and newcomers like Alvaro Morata, but it was the introduction of Chukwueze and other substitutes that truly shifted the game in Milan's favour.
This victory marks Chukwueze's second trophy with Milan, following their penalty shootout win over Monza in last season's edition of the Silvio Berlusconi Trophy.
With the new season on the horizon, Chukwueze and Milan will be aiming for success in Serie A, the Coppa Italia, and a deep run in the Champions League.
