AC Milan Held to Thrilling 3-3 Draw by Genoa in Serie A

Giroud Deploys as Goalkeeper, Ending Seven Minutes of Mayhem

AC Milan were forced to share the points with a determined Genoa side on Sunday, after a breathtaking 3-3 draw at the San Siro. The match was marked by a dramatic finale, which saw AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan sent off in the dying moments, forcing striker Olivier Giroud to take over between the sticks.

First Half Firepower

The first half was a goal-fest, with both teams trading blows. Milan took the lead through an early Rafael Leao strike, but Genoa equalised just minutes later through a penalty from Domenico Criscito. Zlatan Ibrahimovic restored Milan's advantage, but Genoa again leveled through Mattia Destro before the break.

Second Half Drama

The second half continued in the same vein, with Matteo Gabbia putting Milan back in front. However, Genoa refused to give up, and managed to equalise once more through Albert Guðmundsson.

Maignan Sent Off, Giroud to the Rescue

In the dying seconds of the match, AC Milan's hopes of a victory were dealt a major blow when Maignan was sent off for a reckless challenge outside the penalty area. With no other goalkeeper on the bench, Giroud was forced to take over in goal.

Remarkably, Giroud held his own between the sticks for the final seven minutes, managing to keep Genoa at bay and salvage a point for Milan.

Curva Sud Protest

While the on-field drama was captivating, the match was also overshadowed by a protest from the AC Milan ultras in the Curva Sud. The fans remained silent throughout the game, expressing their dissatisfaction with the club's recent performances and transfer policy.

The point earned by AC Milan keeps them in second place in Serie A, while Genoa move up to 16th place.