AC Milan fall to Dinamo Zagreb, to face Champions League play-off round

AC Milan missed the chance to secure an automatic spot in the Champions League last-16 after a 2-1 defeat to Dinamo Zagreb, who also failed to advance to the knockout stage despite the victory.

Dinamo struck first when Martin Baturina capitalized on a loose touch from Matteo Gabbia, calmly slotting past goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

Already assured of a next-round spot but aiming for a top-eight finish, Milan’s hopes dimmed when Yunus Musah received a second yellow card for pulling back Luka Stojkovic.

Dinamo squandered chances to extend their lead, with Sandro Kulenovic missing a golden opportunity before halftime. Stojkovic appeared to score early in the second half, but a handball in the build-up nullified the goal.

Milan responded swiftly, with Christian Pulisic’s low strike slipping past Dinamo goalkeeper Ivan Nevistic to equalize.

However, Dinamo regained the lead on the hour mark through Marko Pjaca’s precise finish from a tight angle. Milan’s hopes of a comeback faded when a potential penalty was overturned due to a foul by Rafael Leao.

Dinamo’s win fell short of securing their first-ever knockout stage appearance, while AC Milan will now contend with a play-off tie.