Sergio Conceicao Addresses AC Milan’s Unforced Errors Following Disappointing Loss To Torino
After a disappointing defeat to Torino, AC Milan coach Sergio Conceicao expressed frustration over his team’s unforced errors and missed opportunities. He acknowledged the fans’ disappointment and emphasised the need for improvement.
AC Milan’s coach, Sergio Conceicao, acknowledged the fans’ dissatisfaction following their recent loss to Torino. The defeat was marked by an early own goal from Malick Thiaw and a missed penalty by Christian Pulisic, resulting in a 2-1 scoreline. This setback came after Milan’s exit from the Champions League, intensifying the supporters’ calls for improved performances.
Conceicao expressed his understanding of the fans’ frustration, emphasising that the team must meet higher expectations. “We are not satisfied when there is criticism on the directors, players or staff. We are Milan and we take the criticism together,” he stated. Despite having 30 attempts on goal, Milan struggled to convert opportunities, with Torino’s goalkeeper proving to be a formidable opponent.
The coach highlighted that Torino led 1-0 at half-time without registering a shot on target. He lamented Milan’s missed penalty and other squandered chances. Conceicao stressed the need for resilience in such situations, acknowledging that recent goals conceded were largely due to unforced errors rather than tactical issues.
During the match, Conceicao made a controversial decision by substituting Rafael Leao at half-time. Leao had minimal impact in the first half, managing only 29 touches and one shot. “Rafa was not at his best,” Conceicao explained, adding that all players are crucial to the team. He urged focus away from substitutions or formations when conceding preventable goals.
Milan’s recent form has been concerning, with four losses in their last five away games across all competitions. This includes two defeats each in Serie A and the Champions League. These losses match their total away defeats from their previous 12 matches this season.
Conceicao apologised to fans who attended recent games, acknowledging their disappointment. He noted that many of the goals conceded were due to avoidable mistakes rather than strategic flaws. The coach remains puzzled by how these errors continue to occur despite efforts to address them.