Italian Football Club AC Milan upset Barcelona in San Siro yesterday, beating the Spanish powerhouse 2-0 in the first leg of the round of 16 of the Champions League tournament. Although an unexpected victory, AC Milan dominated, winning convincingly with a goal by Kevin-Prince Boateng in the 57th minute when he turned and fired following a free kick. Sulley Muntari sealed the win in the 81st minute when Stephan El- Sharaawy flicked the ball to the left side of the post. The Ghana International finished with a beautiful one-time close-range volley.
Milan defended brilliantly, stifling Barcelona, and not allowing them to cut through the heart of defense. Central midfielders Ricardo Montolivo and Massimo Ambrosini made sure the path was closed, allowing the Spanish giants only two shots on target the entire match.
This win puts the Italian club in a great position to advance to the quarterfinals. Milan is looking to avenge last year’s quarterfinal defeat at the hands of Barcelona.
The last time AC Milan lifted the trophy was back in 2007 when they beat Liverpool 2-1. Barca beat Manchester United 3-1 in 2011 to win their fourth Champions League title. They currently sit at the top of La Liga with 12 points.
The second leg will be held in Camp Nou, Barcelona on Mar. 12.