Stefano Pioli delivers brutally honest verdict on Newcastle after they hold AC Milan in Champions League

Add as preferred source on Google

Stefano Pioli is adamant about who deserved to win Tuesday night’s Champions League clash between AC Milan and Newcastle United.

The Magpies were able to hold Milan to a 0-0 draw in the Champions League opener, holding on for a point inside the San Siro on what was a special night for Eddie Howe’s side.

They had to really dig in and fight for the point, with Nick Pope making some huge saves to keep the game level.

There were moments in the first half when it felt inevitable that AC Milan would score. They put us under so much pressure at times, but Newcastle stood firm.

It has to be considered a great start to the group stage for Newcastle. They have gone to the home of one of Europe’s biggest clubs and got a point and a clean sheet.

However, for AC Milan it is seen as a missed opportunity.

Stefano Pioli thinks AC Milan were ‘better’ than Newcastle ‘in all aspects’

After the final whistle, AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli spoke to Sky Italia and admitted that his team were better than Newcastle in every department.

“I feel very satisfied with the performance,” he said.

“We commanded and played the game far and wide, but we didn’t finish some rather simple chances well.

“The opponent was strong but we certainly did better than them in all aspects, more intense and more qualitative. It’s a shame because starting the group well was important. We have the quality, we need more determination. 

“We deserved to win, tonight we can go out with our heads held high knowing we can improve further.”

AC Milan did not do enough

In fairness to Pioli, he is right to be disappointed. His side had plenty of chances to win the game, but were unable to take them.

They were clearly the better side, with Newcastle clinging on at times during their first Champions League game in 20 years.

But were Milan better in every department? That seems harsh. We were better defensively – because we had to do more defending. And Nick Pope outperformed both of their goalkeepers – because he had to make more saves.

For Milan, they are right to be disappointed. On the balance of play, they did deserve to win. But they failed to take their chances, and that is why Newcastle have got a point on the board in the Champions League.