Modrić and Rabiot turn the game: Milan opens season in Italy with victory

AC Milan kicked off their new Serie A campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 away win over Torino, thanks to a decisive second-half performance after the introduction of key midfielders Luka Modrić and Adrien Rabiot.

The match remained goalless for much of the first half, but the game's complexion changed dramatically after the 56th minute when Modrić and Rabiot entered the field. Within ten minutes, Milan had scored twice, taking a commanding lead. Rabiot provided the assist for 19-year-old Alphadjo Cisse's opening goal in the 64th minute. Just two minutes later, Modrić set up Samuel Chukwueze, whose cross was met by Rabiot for Milan's second goal.

Torino attempted a comeback, with Alieu Njie hitting the woodwork in the 74th minute and Zakaria Aboukhlal missing a clear chance later on. Despite a late consolation goal from Che Adams in the final moments, Torino couldn't salvage a draw.

Other Italian clubs also started their seasons positively. Atalanta secured a 2-1 home victory against Sassuolo, with goals from Giacomo Raspadori and Nikola Krstović. Juventus claimed a 1-0 away win over Frosinone, courtesy of a Bremer goal. Lecce also earned three points, defeating Venezia 2-0 with goals from Olaf Gorter and Tiago Gabriel, though Venezia had two goals disallowed by VAR.