MODRIC ROLLS BACK THE YEARS

AC Milan made it two wins from their opening three Serie A fixtures with a hard fought 1-0 success over Bologna on Sunday night.

Luka Modric was the hero as the 40 year old slotted home the winner on the 61st minute, moving Milan up to 5th in the league standings.

Match Report: AC Milan 1–0 Bologna

Date: 14 September 2025
Venue: San Siro, Milan
Competition: Serie A

Lineups & Formation

• AC Milan (3-5-2):
  Start: Maignan; Tomori, Gabbia, Pavlović; Saelemaekers, Fofana, Modrić, Rabiot, Estupiñán; Loftus-Cheek, Giménez
  Substitutes Used: De Winter came on for Pavlović at half-time; Ricci for Fofana, Pulisic for Loftus-Cheek; Nkunku late on for Giménez.
• Bologna (4-2-3-1):
  Start: Skorupski; Zortea, Lucumí, Heggem, Lykogiannīs; Ferguson, Freuler; Orsolini, Fabbian, Cambiaghi; Castro
  Substitutes Used: Bernardeschi & Miranda entered during the second half; Odgaard & Rowe also used.

First Half

The match began with Milan controlling possession and trying to probe Bologna’s defensive lines, with Modrić, Rabiot, and Fofana at the core of their midfield trying to thread passes through. Bologna, meanwhile, set up in a compact shape, willing to absorb pressure and attempt counters, utilising the pace of Orsolini and Cambiaghi on the flanks.

Milan had some half-chances with Estupiñán and Loftus-Cheek pushing forward, but nothing that seriously troubled Skorupski. Bologna’s best moments in the first 45 came from swift transitions, with Orsolini in particular giving Milan’s full-back Estupiñán and Saelemaekers work to do.

As the half drew to a close, bookings came in for Milan: Estupiñán was booked early on, then Tomori, and Saelemaekers just before the break, reflecting growing frustrations and intensity.

No goals. Milan went into half-time leading only in possession, but still searching for a breakthrough.

HT: 0-0.

Second Half

Milan made one change at half time: Pavlović was replaced by De Winter, adjusting their defensive line.

The game remained tight for the opening part of the second half, with Bologna continuing to defend deep. But in the 61st minute, Modrić delivered. Milan built up play through the midfield, and Modrić, receiving the ball outside the box, delivered a perfectly placed finish to score. It was his first goal for Milan, and one that proved decisive.

After the goal, Bologna pressed for an equaliser. They made substitutions aimed at increasing their attacking threat, bringing on Bernardeschi and Rowe, among others.

Milan also made defensive and tactical tweaks to preserve the lead: bringing in Ricci, Pulisic, and Nkunku in later stages to freshen up legs and manage the game.

Skorupski had to make some stops late on; Bologna’s crosses and set-pieces caused moments of danger. Tomori and Gabbia marshaled Milan’s backline well, with support from Fofana and Modrić dropping deeper when needed.

FT: 1-0.

Disciplinary / Other Notable Events

• Bookings for Milan: Estupiñán, Tomori, Saelemaekers.
• Bookings for Bologna: Bologna saw Miranda booked later in the match, as well as Skorupski.
• Late in the game, AC Milan coach Allegri was sent off from the bench.

Final Whistle & Significance

AC Milan 1–0 Bologna – a narrow but important win. Modrić’s goal proved enough to secure all three points.

For Milan:

• The victory boosts their early season momentum in Serie A.
• It also affirms Modrić’s contribution, showing that the veteran can still deliver in key moments.
• A clean sheet at home, despite Bologna’s threat, will give confidence.

For Bologna:

• Despite the loss, they showed defensive resilience and kept Milan from dominating completely.
• Their attacking came more after going behind; but couldn’t quite find the quality needed.

Overall, a hard-earned win for AC Milan, with Modrić’s strike the difference.