Benfica's decisive strike shatters San Siro centenary celebrations

Benfica arrived at San Siro to find the stadium bathed in centenary celebrations, only to leave with a 0‑2 defeat for Milan that underlined the Portuguese side's intent in the Europa League.

The match opened the League Phase of the UEFA Europa League 2026‑27. Benfica entered the historic ground and imposed themselves, spoiling the Italian club's week of commemoration for the stadium's 100‑year anniversary.

Marco Silva's tactical plan stifled Milan’s creativity, allowing Dodi Lukébakio to fire a powerful left‑footed strike in the 16th minute. The early goal set the tone, and Milan struggled to find rhythm in the final third.

Anatoliy Trubin kept the Portuguese lead safe, making key saves that denied Milan any chance of an early response. Despite several attempts before the break, defensive lapses and a lack of clear ideas cost the Lombard side dearly.

Second‑half changes and the decisive blow

Rúben Amorim altered his line‑up, introducing Christian Pulisic to add attacking threat. Milan pushed higher, seeking an equaliser, but Benfica exploited the space left behind.

In the 53rd minute Jakub Kaminski found himself unmarked inside the box and slotted home a cross from Souffian El Karouani, sealing the 0‑2 scoreline. Trubin again denied Pulisic, but the Portuguese side could not add further goals.

Historic first win on Milan soil

The victory marked Benfica’s first official win in Milan and secured their opening three points of the tournament. Milan began their European campaign amid serious doubts, suffering a painful loss during the centenary of the Giuseppe Meazza stadium.

The fixture appears on Google as part of the UEFA Futbol Fase Liga. The original Spanish headline began with "Los", highlighting how the defeat disrupted the celebratory mood.