CorSera: The Ruben and Rafa show – Milan begin EL campaign with statement win

By Oliver Fisher -

AC Milan’s adventure in the Europa League couldn’t have started better than last night’s 3-0 victory against Rennes, which is a big step towards securing qualification for the round of 16.

As Corriere della Sera (via MilanNews) writes this morning, there is still a second leg to be played next Thursday and maximum attention will be needed in France, but last night’s result leaves Stefano Pioli and his side rather calm as they played an excellent match and are continuing their positive moment.

The paper particularly praised the performance of Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who scored a brace of headers. His physicality is dominant and when he is at 100% in terms of conditions he makes smart runs into the box and scores goals.

Perhaps the most positive note though was Rafael Leao’s return to scoring, given he had not netted for a few weeks. The Portuguese asked for a substitution during the second half due to a blow to his calf, but after the match he reassured everyone that he will be there on Sunday against Monza.

The road to the final in Dublin on 22 May is still very long, but given that a place in the Champions League for next season is almost secured in the league, Milan can really commit to Europa. On last night’s evidence, they might just be candidates for a trip to Ireland.

   

Tags AC Milan Milan Rennes
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