1st half goals help Milan beat Sassuolo at away game

By Emre Asikci

ANKARA (AA) - Two first half goals from Zlatan Ibrahimovic led Milan to 2-1 victory over Sassuolo in Italy's Serie A.

Playing at Mapei Stadium in the Italian city of Reggio Emilia, Swedish star Ibrahimovic scored the opener with header goal to give Milan a 1-0 lead in the 16th minute.

Sassuolo equalized in the 42nd minute as Italian forward Francesco Caputo put the ball into Milan's net.

In the 45th minute, Ibrahimovic's goal brought victory for Milan, making the lead 2-1.

Turkish midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu contributed to the victory with two assists.

Also, Sassuolo's Moroccon midfielder Mehdi Bourabia received a red card in the 45th minute.

With 59 points, Milan jumped to the fifth spot with a game in hand, while Sassuolo is in the eighth spot with 48 points.

- Milan extend contract with head coach Stefano Pioli

The club confirmed the completion of an agreement with Pioli for a two-year extension of his contract.

"I am happy and proud of the trust I have received from AC Milan. I want to thank everyone, including our fans, who we are really missing at the stadium, but are always close and supportive," Pioli said on the club's website.

The 54-year-old coach joined the club in 2019.