Midfielder Ismael Bennacer first-half goal was enough for AC Milan to defeat 10-man Napoli in their UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg tie on Wednesday.
Bennacer struck the winner just before the break to ensure his side takes an advantage to the second leg in Naples next week.
The midfielder was found unmarked by Rafael Leao to powerfully shot past Napoli’s goalkeeper Meret, who tried to put a foot out to keep the shot out.
Napoli had started the game on the front foot and created a couple of goalscoring chances only to be denied by Mike Maignan, the Milan goalie.
Maignan tipped Zambo Anguissa’s effort over the crossbar before also tapping over Paulo Zielinski’s left footed shot.
Milan’s only other goal scoring chance in the opening half fell to defender Simon Kjaer who rose highest to head in a corner onto the underside of the crossbar and the ball bounced clear to safety.
After the break, Napoli tried their level best to level matters but Maignan did brilliantly to stop Elif Elmas and Matteo Politano efforts.
Napoli had Anguissa sent off by
referee Istvan Kovacs in the second half for two bookable offense. The Cameroonian received his first booking in 71st minute for a foul on Theo Hernandez before receiving his second just three minutes for another foul on the same player.
Napoli, who played without their star striker Victor Osimhen due to groin injury will hope the Nigerian is back next week when the two teams meet for the second leg in Naples.
Starting lineups
