Milan fans evoked Neo, from The Matrix, for a brilliant response to PSG’s mosaic

Paris Saint-Germain took care of the mosaic before the match against Milan, in the last round of the Champions League, inside the Parc des Princes. The Parisians displayed a huge image of Jean-Paul Belmondo, a famous fan of the club and also an actor famous for his action films. The hero appeared holding a gun, pointed at the devil who serves as the Milanists’ mascot. Because the Rossoneri’s response this Tuesday, in the Champions League clash with PSG, was sensational. The Italians evoked Neo, from The Matrix, in a new mosaic at the San Siro.

Neo appeared in Milan’s ultras sector. Keanu Reeves’ character in The Matrix reproduced his most famous scene from the trilogy: stopping bullets in mid-air. It was a way of showing how the Milanists could refute the shots given by Belmondo previously. Genius way to “talk” to the other mosaic and show how the Rossoneri could have the last laugh on the pitch. All around, with phrases in French and English, the Italians reaffirmed their commitment to being “always Milan”.

And it wasn’t just off the field that Milan did well against PSG. The team also did its part, with a 2-1 comeback victory. Rafael Leão scored the first goal, in a beautiful effort, after Milan Skriniar had opened the scoring. It was an open first half, with chances for both sides and the possibility of more goals. Just after half-time, a header from Olivier Giroud declared Milan’s triumph. After that, the Rossoneri were great in defense to control the Parisians – just like Neo, with Belmondo’s bullets. With the result, Milan recorded their first triumph in this Champions League.

The fake notes

Another action by Milan fans that drew a lot of attention involved Gianluigi Donnarumma. Obviously, the feeling of betrayal surrounding the goalkeeper’s transfer would be present in the San Siro stands. The Rossoneri took advantage of the visit to stage a massive protest against the home’s old silver: thousands of fake dollar notes with Donnarumma’s face were thrown onto the San Siro lawn – in a wonderful pun on the nickname “Dollarumma”. The notes did not affect the match, but they indicated that the former idol was no longer welcome.

Donnarumma had a good game at the San Siro. He was not to blame for the goals, despite the defeat, and even made crucial saves – especially to prevent Milan’s third goal in the second half. Even so, with each appearance on the night, the Italian was accompanied by loud boos. The Milan fans did not forgive the young man’s decision to look for another club at the end of his contract. Since the Scudetto, the Rossoneri goal has been brilliantly protected by Mike Maignan, who was decisive in Tuesday’s triumph with a miracle at the end.

And Milan’s protest against Donnarumma still has a sympathetic face. The counterfeit notes were sold for €2 and the money will be redirected to social initiatives. Two football schools in the Milan region will benefit, with the purchase of balls, boots, shirts and other equipment. According to Curva Sud, the intention is to “never again create worthless people, like this unworthy person”.