Italy's Maldini rushes to hospital after Saturday's Serie A winner

Daniel Maldini clinched the decisive penalty that handed Cagliari a win over Atalanta on Saturday, before being rushed to hospital in the early hours of Sunday following a two‑car collision on the outskirts of Milan. The crash occurred at about 5:15 am and involved six people, all sustaining minor injuries.

The Serie A clash on Saturday saw Cagliari edge Atalanta thanks to Maldini's spot‑kick. The 24‑year‑old has already netted two goals in four Serie A games for the Sardinian side this season, adding to his six caps for Italy.

Crash in Milan outskirts

According to the Italian outlet ANSA, the collision happened on via Caracciolo in the northern periphery of Milan. Six occupants – two women aged 20 and 22 and three men aged 19, 20 and 21, plus Maldini, who will turn 25 in a month – were attended by three ambulances and a medical car. One victim was treated on the scene while the remaining five, including Maldini, were taken to Fatebenefratelli Hospital for evaluation; he was later discharged. Getty images showed emergency crews at the scene.

Daniel is the third‑generation professional from the Maldini dynasty. He is the son of Italy legend Paolo Maldini and grandson of Cesare Maldini. The six‑cap Italy international began his career at AC Milan, making 24 appearances before spells on loan at Spezia, Empoli and Monza, a permanent move to Monza, a stint at Atalanta and a loan at Lazio before joining Cagliari on his fifth loan.

Cagliari sit fourth in Serie A and will travel to Udinese on Saturday, 19 September, to maintain their push for European qualification.

The win keeps Cagliari in the top‑four race, preserving their chance of a European spot while Maldini recovers from his hospital checks.