Nigeria international Samuel Chukwueze delivered an outstanding attacking display as AC Milan defeated Manchester United 4-2 in an entertaining pre-season encounter on Saturday.
Chukwueze was at the heart of Milan’s comeback, scoring once and providing two assists as the Italian giants recovered from two separate setbacks to claim a convincing victory.
Manchester United made a blistering start to the contest, taking the lead just two minutes after kick-off.
Harry Maguire reacted quickest to put the Premier League side ahead and give United an early advantage.
The Red Devils subsequently enjoyed a large share of possession and controlled much of the opening period.
However, their dominance did not translate into further goals as Milan gradually found their rhythm.
Chukwueze eventually brought Milan level eight minutes before half-time.
The Nigerian forward found himself in the right position to finish from close range, restoring parity and giving his side renewed momentum going into the break.
United regained the advantage six minutes after the restart when Patrick Dorgu found the back of the net in the 51st minute.
Milan, however, responded almost immediately. Chukwueze turned provider in the 57th minute, creating the opportunity for Alphadjo Cisse to score and make it 2-2.
The Super Eagles winger continued to torment the United defence and completed his impressive contribution in the 68th minute when he supplied another decisive pass, this time for Gonçalo Ramos, who finished clinically to put Milan 3-2 ahead.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek completed Milan’s comeback three minutes later with a fine finish, extending the advantage to 4-2 and putting the result beyond United’s reach.
Chukwueze’s performance will provide a major boost to his confidence ahead of the new campaign.
His goal and two assists underlined his ability to influence matches both as a scorer and creator, while also highlighting the attacking threat he can offer Milan from the wide areas.
For Manchester United, the defeat will serve as another reminder that pre-season fixtures are primarily about building fitness, testing tactical options and giving players valuable minutes ahead of the competitive season.
For Chukwueze, however, the night belonged to him as he played a decisive role in one of Milan’s most impressive pre-season performances.
