Mbangula hat-trick helps Bologna beat AC Milan in Serie A

AC Milan suffered their first Serie A defeat of the season, caught out by an impressive hat-trick from Samuel Mbangula that led Bologna to a 4-2 victory. It is only Bologna’s second win in 22 meetings with the Milan side in Italy’s top flight, a feat that will surely resonate with the club’s supporters.

Bologna were aggressive from the start and almost took the lead after five minutes. Nadir Zortea sent in a dangerous cross that passed just inches from Jens Odgaard’s foot, before Mbangula failed to convert the rebound. However, fortunes quickly turned, as a defensive lapse from Bologna allowed Milan back into the game. Arthur Theate lost possession to Omari Hutchinson, whose pressing led to an assist for Alphadjo Cisse, who did not hesitate to equalise.

Once Milan had levelled, the dynamic of the match changed radically. Making the most of the momentum, Fikayo Tomori was quick to react to a loose ball in the box, setting up Cisse for the second goal, which appeared to put Pioli’s side in control of the match. However, Bologna were not discouraged and came out after the break with fresh determination. They almost levelled again when Odgaard, stretching, sent the ball over the bar following a cross from Federico Bernadeschi.

Bologna’s resilience was rewarded when a cross from Juan Miranda confused the Milan defence, resulting in an own goal from Davide Bartesaghi, which gave the hosts renewed hope. With the lead regained, Bologna did not ease off and quickly scored the third, with Mbangula adding another to his tally, finishing calmly after a cutback from Miranda.

This match not only represents a setback for AC Milan, who had turned San Siro into an impregnable fortress, but also reopens questions about the consistency of the Milan defence. Stefano Pioli’s side will have to find quick solutions to stop this defeat from becoming a negative trend. The impact of this match could be profound in the title race, especially considering the recent history between the two sides. Milan’s next challenge will be crucial to regain confidence and keep up the pressure in the table.