Milan end penalty drought after dramatic Europa League shoot-out

Milan won their first penalty shoot-out in European competition since 2003 after reaching the Europa League group stage in remarkable fashion.

Not since their Champions League final triumph over Juventus at Old Trafford 17 years ago had Milan prevailed on penalties in Europe.

But Milan ended that drought with a dramatic draw and 9-8 shoot-out victory against Rio Ave in Thursday’s Europa League play-off, which saw 24 penalties taken.

Penalties were needed after Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu equalised with the final kick of the game in extra time against the Portuguese hosts.

2003 – #ACMilan have won a game in European competitions at the Penalty Shootout for the first time since the Champions League Final in 2003, against Juventus at the Old Trafford. Deliverance.#RioAveMilan pic.twitter.com/EsSgxYiP3C

— OptaPaolo (@OptaPaolo) October 1, 2020

In an incredible shoot-out, Rio Ave had chances to stun Milan and book their spot in the group stage, including Nelson Monte sensationally hitting both posts.

Both goalkeepers also blazed their attempts over the crossbar as every player went around again to take a penalty before Gianluigi Donnarumma eventually came up with the save to send Milan through. 

Who said you could go to bed before watching this 

Qualcuno pensava di andare a dormire senza rivedersi la serie dei calci di rigore? #RioAveMilan #UEL #SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/TDJABBrFzV

— AC Milan (@acmilan) October 1, 2020

Stefano Pioli’s Milan are unbeaten in 18 matches across all competitions as they prepare for Sunday’s Serie A fixture against newly promoted Spezia.