AC Milan visited Rijeka tonight for the final match of the Europa League Group D.
Rijeka had to play one of the biggest games in the history of the club tonight as AC Milan visited Rujevica for the final round of Group D in Europa League.
While the Italian Serie A side already secured the top spot in Group D and the placement into the round of 16, the Croatian champion went into the match with no chances for continuing the Euro tournament in the spring.
The atmosphere at Rujevica was one that will be spoken about forever, though, and the loud songs and chants by Rijeka fans could fool anyone that this team had no shot in advancing any further in the competition.
Rijeka came out energetic, ambitious, and hungry for a win. Because Milan did not come out with their A team for this particular game, Rijeka was able to put constant pressure on Milan’s defense, and most notably by Acosty and Vešović. The first goal came within minutes, and it wasn’t by the visiting team. Rijeka’s Jakov Puljić stunned the stadium with a goal in the 6th minute from 25 meters out, and Rijeka took the lead with 1:0.
Throughout the first half, Rijeka continued to press, and Milan was not able to get a goal.
The second half started out with a bang again for Rijeka, and in the 47th minute, Mario Gavranović found the back of the net for 2:0!
Rijeka continued to secure their goal, and while there were a few chances for Milan, the game ended 2:0 for Rijeka.
An incredible win for the Croatian club and the perfect way to go out with a bang from Europa League.
Scorers: 1: 0 – Puljić (7), 2: 0 – Gavranović (47).
Rijeka (4-2-3-1): Sluga – Vešović, Župarić, Elez, Žuta – Maleš, Pavičić – Acosty (77. Punčec), Puljić, Kvržić (86. Mavrias) – Gavranović (80. Črnic) .
Milan (3-5-2): Storari – Zapata, Paletta, Romagnoli – Calabria, Zanellato (from 74th Abate), Biglia, Locatelli, Antonelli (from 80th Fort) – Cutrone, Andre Silva.
