AC Milan pulled off a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Bologna at the San Siro, dashing Bologna’s hopes of securing Champions League qualification while keeping their own European dreams alive. This thrilling match also served as a preview for the upcoming Coppa Italia final between the two sides.

The game saw a setback early on for Milan when defender Fikayo Tomori was forced off in the 14th minute after a freak head injury. Tomori, who had intercepted a cross-field ball and headed it back to goalkeeper Mike Maignan, stumbled and collided head-first with Bologna’s Benjamín Domínguez. Tomori was substituted for tests, and his availability for Milan’s upcoming cup final is now in doubt.

Despite this, Milan pressed on in the first half with Christian Pulisic and João Félix coming closest to breaking the deadlock, but Bologna’s defense held firm.

In the 49th minute, Bologna took the lead through Riccardo Orsolini. A long ball from Łukasz Skorupski found Thijs Dallinga, whose flick allowed Orsolini to cut inside and curl a fantastic strike past Maignan into the top corner, marking his 15th goal of the season.

Skorupski made several crucial saves to keep Bologna in front, notably denying Théo Hernandez. However, Milan’s persistence paid off in the final 20 minutes.

Santiago Giménez, a substitute, equalized in the 73rd minute with a composed finish inside the box. Just six minutes later, Pulisic, who had assisted Giménez’s goal, found the back of the net himself, sending Skorupski the wrong way from 12 yards out to give Milan the lead.

Giménez sealed the victory in stoppage time, completing his brace and securing a vital 2-1 win for Milan. The result moves Milan into 8th place, just two points behind Bologna, whose chances of a Champions League spot took a serious hit.

Both teams will face off once again on Wednesday at the Stadio Olimpico in what promises to be an intense Coppa Italia final, with Milan hoping their comeback has given them a psychological advantage.