Rabiot inspires Milan in Amorim’s winning start
AC Milan opened their 2026-27 Serie A campaign with a 2-1 victory over Torino, giving new head coach Ruben Amorim a winning start in the league. Adrien Rabiot proved decisive after coming off the bench, producing an assist and a goal in a commanding second-half contribution. Milan had controlled much of the contest but struggled to turn their early pressure into a breakthrough before the interval. Torino rallied late and found a stoppage-time goal, yet the visitors held firm to secure all three points.
Milan press early but draw a blank
Milan began the match on the front foot and created several promising openings during a lively opening period. Cisse struck the side-netting, while Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Pervis Estupinan both saw close-range efforts blocked in quick succession. Samuel Chukwueze then forced Torino goalkeeper Diego Mascardi into the first significant save of the match after half an hour. Despite Milan’s territorial advantage, neither side was able to find the net in a relatively low-key first half.
Double substitution changes the match
Amorim turned to his bench shortly before the hour mark, introducing experienced midfielders Luka Modric and Rabiot. The changes brought greater composure and purpose to Milan’s play, with Rabiot quickly making his influence felt. In the 64th minute, the French midfielder delivered a cross that Cisse collected before curling a fine finish beyond Mascardi. The goal gave Milan the breakthrough their performance had deserved and shifted the momentum firmly in their favour.
Rabiot doubled Milan’s lead just two minutes later to complete a remarkable impact from the substitutes’ bench. Chukwueze gathered possession on the right flank and sent an inviting delivery towards the far post. Rabiot arrived at the perfect moment and volleyed the ball into the roof of the net. His goal capped an impressive attacking move and appeared to put the result beyond Torino’s reach.
Torino fight back too late
Torino responded positively after falling two goals behind and came close to reducing the deficit on more than one occasion. Alieu Njie rattled the left post, while Pietro Comuzzo sent a first-time effort over the crossbar. The hosts eventually found a way through in second-half stoppage time, as Che Adams brilliantly hooked Gvidas Gineitis’ free-kick beyond Mike Maignan. However, Milan saw out the closing moments to begin Amorim’s tenure with an important away win.