ROME. – A stunning stoppage-time equaliser from Lecce’s Marco Calderoni denied Stefano Pioli a win on his debut as AC Milan coach when his side was held to a 2-2 home draw in Serie A on Sunday.
Hakan Calhanoglu smashed in the opening goal during an impressive first half from the hosts but Lecce drew level after the break through Khouma Babacar.
Substitute Krzysztof Piatek restored Milan’s lead with nine minutes remaining but Calderoni’s long-range piledriver in the 92nd minute levelled the scores.
Former Inter Milan coach Pioli made his debut in the Milan dugout after succeeding sacked boss Marco Giampaolo earlier this month.
“It’s a pity, we wanted the win and didn’t get it because of our mistakes,” Pioli told Sky Italia.
“I saw some good moves, quality and spirit, but if you leave the game open, you can have a nasty surprise at the end.”
The draw leaves his side in 12th place on 10 points, their lowest tally after eight games since the 2012/13 season.
“Milan players are well aware of their capabilities and the fact they are wearing a prestigious jersey,” he continued.
“They will be able to judge their own performances and we’ll analyse them carefully, but in a way we paid for our generosity, as we ran after the ball and didn’t keep an eye on other players. I think we deserved to win.” — Reuters
