Clarence Seedorf made a winning start as AC Milan coach on Sunday thanks to Mario Balotelli's late penalty against Serie A rivals Verona.
The striker fired in the only goal of the game in the 82nd minute after Alejandro Gonzalez had fouled Kaka.
Despite the victory, the 18-time champions remain 11th in the table following a week that saw Seedorf replace sacked Massimiliano Allegri.
Milan, who finished third last season, play Cagliari next Sunday in Serie A.
Balotelli stat
- Mario Balotelli has now scored 10 of his 40 Serie A goals against promoted clubs
Seedorf, 37, who spent 10 years as a player at Milan, watched his new side create very few clear-cut chances in a dull encounter.
The San Siro crowd had to wait 38 minutes for the first decent opportunity, when Balotelli cut inside and fired in a powerful low shot that was well saved by Verona goalkeeper Rafael.
Robinho had the best chance prior to the goal, when his strike from the edge of the area took a huge deflection before bouncing off Rafael's right-hand upright.
Verona's Martinho tested Christian Abbiati, who had little to do in the match, with a firm drive before Balotelli finally broke the deadlock at the other end.
Kaka raced down the left side of the area and appeared to be no threat to Verona's goal, but nevertheless was scythed down by Gonzalez.
Balotelli took charge of the spot-kick and side-footed in to give Seedorf the perfect start to his managerial career,
Latest Stories
-
We need quality products locally; importing to run top hotels increases cost – Labadi Beach Hotel MD
8 hours -
2024/25 GPL: Basake Holy Stars face tough test against Medeama at CAM Park
8 hours -
Kwahu-Nkwatia development chief advocates for peaceful elections
8 hours -
We must declare state of emergency over galamsey, halt all mining – VLK Djokoto
9 hours -
JL Plantations, WES Trade sign MoU to promote commercial agriculture in Ghana
9 hours -
APSU to host biggest ‘Aponkye K’ event on September 28
9 hours -
Meet the 1st Ghanaian House Manager of Labadi Beach Hotel, now the MD David Eduaful
9 hours -
Ghana’s farming and construction methods destroying the environment – Environmental Expert
9 hours -
GPL 2024/25: Young Apostles, Aduana chase first win in Wechi clash
10 hours -
GPL 24/25: Hearts of Lions seek to inflict first defeat on leaders Gold Stars
11 hours -
GPL 2024/25: Hungry Accra Lions eyefirst win against Nsoatreman FC
11 hours -
CHRI condemns police conduct during Democracy Hub protests, calls for action
11 hours -
Women’s Premier Super Cup: Ampem Darkoa join Dreamz Ladies in final after win over Faith Ladies
11 hours -
Expert discusses causes, effects, and solutions for erectile dysfunction
11 hours -
Gas tanker overturns at Darkuman near Cable and Wireless
12 hours