Seedorf winner leads Milan into third place

Milan warmed up for this week's Champions League showdown with Manchester United by beating Torino 1-0 to climb to third place in Serie A yesterday.

Milan's fourth successive league win gave them 59 points from 34 matches, 25 points behind champions Inter, who host Empoli today.

Fourth-placed Lazio (57) will regain third if they beat city rivals Roma today.

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti rested several first-team regulars, including playmaker Kaka and striker Filippo Inzaghi, ahead of Wednesday's semi-final second leg against United.

Midfielder Clarence Seedorf scored the winner in the 26th minute, teeing up the ball outside the area before unleashing a swerving shot into the top corner.

Torino rarely tested Milan keeper Dida. Their best chance came midway through the second half when a volley by Roberto Muzzi was deflected off a defender at close range.

The home team had defender Oscar Brevi sent off for a foul on Milan striker Ronaldo in the 73rd minute.

In a later match, Fiorentina continued their drive for a place in next season's European competitions when a goal by Brazilian striker Reginaldo Ferreira gave them a 1-0 victory over Chievo Verona.

Fiorentina, who started the season with minus 15 points for their part in last year's match-fixing scandal, are fifth on 50 points.

Chievo are one point above the relegation zone.