Simon Kjaer has revealed that a bit of double teaming helped AC Milan’s overall defensive effort against Napoli tonight as they booked a place in the Champions League semi-finals.
Milan stamped their tickets for the final four of the Champions League for the first time since the 2006-07 season as they drew 1-1 at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, sealing a 2-1 aggregate victory.
Over the two legs it was a monumental defensive effort from the Rossoneri to keep out one of the most free-flowing attacks in Europe. Many said Khvicha Kvaratskhelia combining with the returning Victor Osimhen would be too much for Milan, but they stood firm and got the job done.
Kjaer gave a brief interview to Mediaset Infinity after the game and was asked if he thought the game would go the way that it did in the end, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.
“There was the feeling of being able to play. We have goals in us, despite Napoli being very strong. The Champions League is strange. Moments change matches. I always try to help my team-mates. Today we doubled up on the right and I was able to control Osimhen,” he said.
You’re a GIANT, man.
I love your composure in the heart of the defence. Very solid and reliable whenever you are been call upon to marshal the defence. Keep it solid kjaer.
He is not a regular starter recently, but amazingly keep the performance top class. I just hope all Milan bench squad could take example on this man.
Kjaer was absolutely fundamental. Once again. And some people here still keep repeating the same old BS: “He’s too old.”, “He’s too slow” etc. 😀 😀 😀
Well, he did say double teaming and he is being rested in the league matches between CL games, so that goes to pace and stamina. But he is a good and experienced defender, and as such does play a fundamental role if deployed as he has been. That said, father time always wins. I’m glad Thiaw has shown he can become equal to or better than Kjaer.
Apart from his defensive qualities his ball distribution and passing is top notch. Surely the best passer in the whole team