AC Milan move closer to Italian Cup quarter-finals
(AP)
Updated: 2005-11-30 10:42

AC Milan defeated second division Brescia 3-1 in the first leg of their Italian Cup last 16 tie at the San Siro.

AC Milan's captain Paolo Maldini is congratulated by his teammate Manuel Rui Costa (L) during a football match in October 2005. AC Milan defeated second division Brescia 3-1 in the first leg of their Italian Cup last 16 tie at the San Siro. [AFP File]

Portuguese midfielder Rui Costa opened the scoring with a right-footed drive before Alberto Gilardino extended Milan's lead with a powerful header.

A close range header from Marius Stankevicius shortly after half-time gave Brescia hope, only for Christian Vieri to restore the home side's two-goal cushion with a shot on the turn.

A relatively comfortable win for Milan leaves them well placed to reach the quarter-finals of the competition lightly-regarded by Serie A's leading clubs due to their already busy fixture lists.

Second-string sides are often selected for the early rounds, while crowds are generally poor.

On Wednesday second division Atalanta host Udinese and Parma entertain Inter Milan.

On Thursday league leaders Juventus play away to Fiorentina, a dress rehearsal for Sunday's Serie A clash.

The other four last 16 cup ties will be played next week, while the second legs will be played in January.