Piatek scores again but Milan draws 1-1 against Udinese

MILAN (AP) — Krzysztof Piatek scored again for AC Milan but his team had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Udinese in Serie A on Tuesday, denting its hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.

Piatek, who joined from Genoa in January, netted his 20th goal of the season shortly before halftime but Kevin Lasagna leveled in the second half. Only Fabio Quagliarella, with 21 goals for Sampdoria, has scored more in Serie A than the Milan forward.

Milan remained fourth in Serie A but is only four points above Lazio and Atalanta, which both play later in the week.

The top four from Serie A qualify for the Champions League.

Udinese moved four points above the relegation zone.

Milan’s recent good run had been halted by defeats against city rival Inter Milan and Sampdoria.

Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso was forced into two changes in the first half as goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and midfielder Lucas Paqueta went off with injuries. They will both be doubtful for Saturday’s match against Serie A leader Juventus.

However, the home side took the lead a minute before halftime when Patrick Cutrone controlled a long ball over the top and crossed for Piatek. His volley was saved by Udinese goalkeeper Juan Musso but the Poland international headed in the rebound.

Milan pressed for a second after the break but Udinese leveled in the 65th following a swift counterattack as Seko Fofana rolled the ball across the box for Lasagna to fire into the roof of the net.

Juventus was playing Cagliari later, looking to extend its lead at the top of the Serie A table to 18 points.