Stefano Pioli was ‘satisfied’ with the 1-0 Champions League win over Tottenham, but acknowledges they should’ve scored another two and the second leg will be ‘even tougher.’
The Rossoneri took an early lead through Brahim Diaz after Theo Hernandez won a header from Cristian Romero, then ran very few risks at the back for Ciprian Tatarusanu.
“It was a difficult game, hard fought as we expected, it was a good performance and we know how tough it will be in the second leg. We played the game we had to play, with focus, determination and teamwork. I am satisfied,” Pioli told Mediaset.
“A coach is always happy when he sees the work done during the week in training put into effect on the field. It hasn’t happened that much recently, we could’ve played forward a bit more in the second half when Tottenham’s pressing fell away, but the lads played with great spirit, determination and solidity.”
Instead, the regrets are that they wasted two free headers in quick succession from Charles De Ketelaere and Malick Thiaw that would’ve extended the lead going into the second leg in London on March 8.
“Yes, there are two goals we could’ve scored. However, the game was hard-fought, they caused us problems too and we defended very well on set plays, so there are many positives. This is just the first step, the second will be even tougher.”
There was also controversy, as Romero was very fortunate to avoid a red card for his studs-up tackle on Sandro Tonali’s ankle at the dawn of the second half.
Fikayo Tomori was expected to make his comeback from the start after sustaining a hip injury on January 24, but he was not even on the bench.
“Tomori trained with us yesterday, but this morning he was complaining of pain in the area of the previous injury. It was not right to risk it with a muscular injury.”
This is the first time that Milan have ever been able to beat Tottenham after two draws and as many defeats.
The Diavolo had not defeated a Premier League side in the Champions League since Arsenal, 4-0 in the first leg of the Round of 16 in 2011-12, losing each of the next five meetings.
“This is a performance that will boost our confidence, but we have to be energetic and dynamic because that is our way of playing. It was a difficult month, we are trying to overcome those difficulties and I continue to believe I am working with a truly special group.”