AC Milan were powered on by a brilliant atmosphere at San Siro last night as they secured a first leg advantage against Napoli with a 1-0 win.
This morning’s edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport (via MilanNews) writes how the game was totally different to the 4-0 win at the Maradona 10 days prior, but Milan were mature in their performance against a team who looked determined to land a knockout blow.
The first 20 minutes were a real tough slog for Pioli’s side as they were second to every ball and came under serious pressure, yet they withstood it and Rafael Leao almost opened the scoring at the other end with an incredible solo run.
From that moment on, the Italian champions came out and closed the half well, finding the only goal of the game from Ismael Bennacer who rifled in a first time shot from the left side of the box.
The Rossoneri pushed for a second goal but it was the away side who threatened the most in the closing exchanges despite having gone down to 10 men when Anguissa received two yellow cards within minutes.
The result could be another psychological block for the Neapolitans who have all the pressure on their side to overturn the deficit in six days, while Milan can wait and pick their moments a bit more perhaps.
On the eve of the game Pioli had mentioned to the European history and tradition of the Rossoneri and it was repaid. Under the eyes of Shevchenko, Nesta, Seedorf and Donadoni, Milan took an important step ahead of the match return to Maradona.
Pioli’s side have shown that they know how to be chameleonic, going from a dominant performance like the one in the league to one of greater sacrifice and hard work like yesterday evening. There may be some regret for not getting a second, but they will take a lead south next week.
Can you imagine all those former players plus Maldini and Baresi, coming in the dressing room after the game to congratulate you?