Ancelotti’s reunion turned sour as Milan thrashed Madrid 3-1 at the Bernabeu

Real Madrid’s difficult start to the season continued as Carlo Ancelotti’s men suffered their second defeat in four Champions League matches, defeating AC Milan 3-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Ancelotti’s reunion with his former club brought little consolation as Milan produced a disciplined performance to secure victory.

The visitors took the lead in the 12th minute and Christian Pulisic’s corner was met powerfully by Malik Thiau, who headed the ball into the net to give Milan a great start. Real responded soon after, with Vinicius Junior equalizing from the penalty spot. The Brazilian earned a penalty himself, calling out a foul from Emerson Royal, after which he confidently converted to make the score 1:1.

Despite Madrid’s quick reaction, Milan regained control before the break. Alvaro Morata, playing against his former club, capitalized on the rebound after Andrei Lunin parried Rafael Leao’s opener to allow Morata to score and give the visitors a 2-1 lead at half-time.

Milan further increased their lead in the 73rd minute. Leao, who had played a major role throughout the match, broke through the Madrid defense with a powerful drive down the flank and delivered a fine cross to Tijani Reynders, who was left unmarked in the box. Reynders took advantage of the chance, passing Lunin to make it 3-1.

Real Madrid’s struggles continued, with Antonio Rudiger’s late try ruled out for offside by VAR, ending any hopes of a late comeback. The defeat was the second setback in a row for Ancelotti’s side following a disappointing 4-0 loss to Barcelona in the El Clasico.