Christian Pulisic added another chapter to his stellar campaign at Milan, scoring and assisting in a dramatic comeback victory over Bologna on Friday night at the San Siro. The American star was once again at the heart of the action for the Rossoneri, lifting his side from the brink of defeat to a 3-1 win, and capping it off with a celebration that had fans talking for more than just soccer reasons.
Milan looked set for a frustrating night after Riccardo Orsolini gave Bologna the lead just four minutes into the second half. The visitors had managed to contain Sergio Conceicao’s side for most of the match until Christian Pulisic took command of the proceedings.
In the 73rd minute, the USMNT international helped spark a much-needed equalizer, linking up brilliantly with Mexico striker Santiago Gimenez. A deflected pass from Samuel Chukwueze bounced kindly into Pulisic’s path, and his slick first-time layoff allowed Gimenez to slot home with his left foot.
Six minutes later, Pulisic found himself on the scoresheet as well. Joao Felix’s shot was blocked inside the area, and the rebound fell invitingly for the onrushing American, who calmly placed his effort into the bottom-right corner with a single touch.
Gimenez would go on to seal the win in stoppage time with his second of the match, but it was the American’s moment of individual brilliance and composure that turned the game on its head.
Celebration full of meaning
After scoring, Pulisic pointed deliberately at the name on the back of his shirt—not “Pulisic,” but “Harlow.” It was a gesture that left many curious at first, until the reason behind it was revealed.
In a heartwarming tribute ahead of Mother’s Day, all Red and Blacks players wore kits featuring their mothers’ maiden names instead of their own surnames. Pulisic’s celebration was his way of honoring his mother, Kelley Harlow, who has long been a supporter of his soccer journey.
“After scoring against Bologna, Christian Pulisic celebrated by pointing to his mom’s maiden name on his jersey ahead of Mother’s Day”, CBS Sports Golazo even took to X (formerly Twitter) to explain.
Career-best season
The goal marked Pulisic’s 17th across all competitions this season, adding to his 12 assists, taking his total goal contributions to 29—already surpassing his previous career-best tally of 26. He is currently Milan’s top scorer for the 2024–25 season.
His impact has gone far beyond just numbers. The 26-year-old has become a leader on the pitch, often carrying Milan in crucial moments. And his performances have not gone unnoticed.
