ROME - AC Milan fought back from two goals down to beat Brescia 4-2 in the first leg of their Italian Cup last 16 tie.

AC Milan striker Filippo Inzaghi, center, celebrates with his teammates Cristian Brocchi, left, and Marco Borriello after scoring, during the Italian Cup soccer match between AC Milan and Brescia at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, Wednesday, Nov 8, 2006. AC Milan won 4-2. [AP]

First half goals from Matteo Serafini and Luis Alfageme appeared to have put the second division side firmly in the driving seat at the San Siro.

But Milan scored four goals in the last half hour to return to winning ways after back-to-back league defeats which have left them 17 points off the pace.

Dario Simic's goal on the hour breathed life into Milan before Cristian Brocchi levelled the score in the 67th minute.

Filippo Inzaghi put Milan ahead for the first time and Marco Borriello's strike four minutes from time increased their advantage.

Milan now look firm favourites to advance to the quarter-finals when the teams meet for the second leg later this month.

Vincenco Montella netted twice for Roma in their 2-1 win at second division Triestina, while Palermo, who jointly lead Serie A with Inter Milan, went down 1-0 at Sampdoria.

Chievo, without a win in Serie A after 10 matches, scored twice in the last five minutes to earn a 2-2 draw at Reggina.

In other matches Livorno lost 2-1 to second division Arezzo and Empoli defeated Serie B leaders Genoa 1-0.

On Thursday Inter play away to Messina and second division Napoli entertain Parma.