AC Milan beat Inter to revive title race as Arsenal survive scare
AC Milan have blown the Serie A title race wide open by defeating rivals Inter Milan to close the gap at the top to seven points.
The Rossoneri secured their second derby victory of the campaign thanks to a decisive strike from Pervis Estupiñán.
Inter dominated portions of the match but were left frustrated as Federico Dimarco and Henrikh Mkhitaryan squandered clear scoring opportunities.
With just 10 matches remaining, the result breathes unexpected life into a Scudetto battle that previously looked certain to end at San Siro’s blue-and-black divide.
Allegri relieves pressure
Manager Max Allegri has consistently downplayed championship expectations this season by insisting Champions League qualification remains the primary objective.
That pragmatic narrative has shielded the squad from intense scrutiny, despite the club adding high-profile veterans like Adrien Rabiot and Luka Modric to their ranks.
This statement victory will undoubtedly satisfy the demanding fanbase and temporarily silence rumours linking the Italian tactician with the Real Madrid job.
Arsenal survive FA Cup scare
Elsewhere in Europe, Arsenal narrowly avoided a humiliating FA Cup exit after heavily rotating their starting XI against Mansfield Town.
With a crucial Champions League round-of-16 tie looming, the Gunners required a late goal and the emergency introduction of several first-team regulars to secure progression.
Premier League rivals Chelsea enjoyed a far more comfortable weekend, abruptly ending Wrexham’s cup fairytale with a commanding performance.
Yamal extends Barcelona advantage
In Spain, Lamine Yamal continued his extraordinary rise by guiding Barcelona to a crucial La Liga victory over Athletic Club.
The teenage sensation was instrumental throughout the contest, demonstrating exactly why he is considered the most promising young talent in world football.
That triumph extends the Catalan giants’ lead at the league summit to four points ahead of defending champions Real Madrid.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side remain in close pursuit despite continuing a recent trend of unconvincing domestic victories.
