Tijjani Reijnders' spectacular early goal propelled AC Milan to a comfortable 3-0 triumph against Monza on Sunday, solidifying their position in Serie A's Champions League spots.
Reijnders' third-minute strike showcased his individual brilliance as he dribbled past five Monza defenders before slotting home his first goal for Milan.
The Netherlands midfielder's stellar performance contributed significantly to Milan's six-point gap behind league leaders Inter Milan, who faced Lazio later on Sunday. Milan's win, following their midweek victory against Newcastle United in the Europa League, elevated them to 32 points, securing the third spot in the league.
Reijnders expressed his honour in playing and scoring at the San Siro, emphasising Milan's ongoing fight for the league title. Teenage debutant Jan-Carlo Simic, stepping in for the injured Tommaso Pobega, doubled Milan's lead just before halftime with a goal that marked his first for the club. Noah Okafor added to the tally with a 76th-minute strike, set up by Reijnders' exceptional play.
Simic's dream debut drew chants from the San Siro crowd, with the 18-year-old centre-back expressing gratitude for the support. Milan, now seven points clear of Roma and Bologna, just outside the top four, continues their pursuit of success as they approach the midway point of the season.
The victory comes one day after the first anniversary of Sinisa Mihajlovic's passing, with Roma and Bologna set to face off later on Sunday in his honor. Meanwhile, Inter, leading the title race by one point over Juventus, aims to extend their advantage in the late Sunday match against Lazio.
