MILAN: AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has called for major improvements after seeing yet another under-par defensive display from his side four days before their Champions League opener against Celtic.
Seven-time European champions Milan welcome Celtic to the San Siro for their first Group A match of the campaign on Wednesday. But three weeks after an opening day defeat to new boys Verona, Milan had to rely on two late goals from Sulley Muntari and Mario Balotelli, from the spot, to secure a precious 2-2 draw away to Torino on Saturday.
The match marked Kaka’s league debut after the Brazilian’s return to Milan following his free transfer from Real Madrid two weeks ago. But despite showing glimpses of his potential, the former Ballon d’Or winner’s lack of match fitness became apparent when he came off after 70 minutes.
Having conceded goals in the 47th and 71st minutes to Danilo D’Ambrosio and Alessio Cerci respectively, Milan proved vulnerable on the counter-attack.
Allegri admitted: “Five minutes from the end we’d lost the match.
“We didn’t play well. Torino were strong, especially on the counter-attack, and showed their speed and technical ability when going forward.”
In the end Milan launched a most unlikely comeback in the 87th minute when Sulley Muntari’s low shot sneaked into the Torino goal as confusion reigned in the home end. AFP
