Milan were heading towards an okay result in the first leg of the Europa League round of 16 against Man Utd, then Simon Kjaer stepped up and scored a crucial away goal. Down below are the player ratings.
Starting XI
Donnarumma (6): Didn’t have that much to do this evening and perhaps you could argue he could have done better on United’s goal, but it was very well taken. Decent performance and no major complaints.
Calabria (6.5): Worked very hard in defence as usual and had a wonderful cross almost converted by Krunic. However, he didn’t get as much out of his play in attack, mostly due to United’s defending.
Kjaer (7.5): The big Dane has hit the frame several times this season but managed to get one in the goal this evening, scoring the crucial injury-time equaliser. In addition, he was very solid in defence as you would expect.
Tomori (7): He could have done a bit better on the goal, losing Diallo as a result of Fernandes’ wonderful ball, but other than that he was very good both in defence and in the build-up. Several good interceptions and calm play as well.
Dalot (6.5): Overall he looked a lot better than last time out although he didn’t get a goal this evening. Offered support in the attacking phase and was very comfortable on the ball, unlike some performances this season. Something to build on for sure.
Meite (7.5): Easily the Torino loanee’s best performance in a Milan shirt. Not only did he do well when playing it simple this evening, but he also got out of tricky positions and created a lot with his moves. Very solid defensively as well, really good.
Kessie (8 – MOTM): Yet again, the 24-year-old is the Rossoneri’s man of the match with a simply stunning performance. In defence and in attack, he was absolutely crucial this evening and it’s a shame that he had his great strike disallowed. A true leader, excelling as needed with multiple key players out.
Saelemaekers (6.5): He worked very hard and had some success in the attacking phase, helping his teammates create some space with his movement. Had a few shooting opportunities that could have gone better, but overall solid.
Diaz (5.5): He managed to show himself on the pitch this time and he got the ball quite often, but he didn’t really add much in his role. Kessie was a lot more efficient when moved to the No.10 role in the final 20 minutes, which says a lot. He needs to improve still. Too much sloppy play and too many lost balls.
Krunic (7): Looked very, very good once again after the surprising display at the weekend. Had a few chances to level it earlier but made up for it with his assist for Kjaer’s goal. Despite playing on the left this evening he was an important asset for the team.
Leao (6): It didn’t start too well for the Portuguese as he was offside and out of position several times, but he improved and at least helped Milan create some chances. Won the crucial corner that they converted as well.
Substitutes
Tonali (6.5): Very good from what we saw of him as he chased after every ball and was successful in many of the duels. Showed off his good passing foot and no doubt would have been a higher rating with more time.
Castillejo (N/A): He was on the pitch for as many minutes as Sandro, but he was a bit more invisible and had more of a numerical impact than anything. Therefore, no rating.
Kalulu (N/A): Came on to replace Calabria and did okay but not enough to set a rating.
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