Semifinal berth a ‘big step forward’ for Milan

AC Milan reached the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since they won the trophy 16 years ago thanks to a first-half goal from Olivier Giroud at Napoli that secured a 1-1 draw and 2-1 aggregate win despite a barrage of pressure on Tuesday.

"We're too happy to have overcome such a good team... it's a great feeling," AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli said after the match.

"Let's take it one step at a time, whoever we get, we get. Whoever we get it will be a great derby and Champions League semi-final."

They have overcome a post-World Cup slump in recent weeks and Tuesday's performance was another statement display which gives them hope of reaching the final.

"These are experiences which give you the strength and ability to manage a certain type of pressure. For many of us it was the first time that we were playing such an important match...It's another big step forward."

Napoli, who were in the last eight for the first time, are in a mini-slump without a victory in their last three matches in all competitions.