
Milan's Europa League debut ends in 0-2 Benfica defeat, exposing tactical flaws
AC Milan suffered their first defeat of the 2026-27 season, losing 0-2 to Benfica in their UEFA Europa League opener at San Siro. The match highlighted significant defensive vulnerabilities and a lack of attacking cohesion under new manager Ruben Amorim. While Benfica capitalized on sloppy defending to score twice, Milan’s record signing Gonçalo Ramos remained ineffective, extending his goalless run. The result intensified scrutiny on Amorim’s tactical choices, particularly his decision to bench key players like Christian Pulisic and Luka Modrić, as the club faces growing pressure to improve before their next Serie A fixture.

