AC Milan managed to claim all three points from their away trip to Genoa despite playing with ten men for the entire second half against Sampdoria. There were a few standouts for the Rossoneri and down below are the ratings.
Before reading the ratings, please keep in mind that today’s performance was more of a collective team effort than individual brilliance, hence the moderate numbers despite the win.
Starting XI
Maignan (6.5): He made a few very good saves towards the end of the game and he was also solid throughout the clash. It’s hard to determine if he could have done better on the goal, as it was a header from close range but a very good one.
Calabria (6.5): He intercepted a lot of balls this evening and when Milan shifted to a five-man backline, he always pushed up the line and that was important for the Rossoneri (to not sink too low). A captain’s display.
Kjaer (6): He was out of position during Sampdoria’s goal as he couldn’t keep up with the pace of the attack (by the looks of it). Aside from that, it was a solid display but not much more. The home side didn’t exactly threaten that much.
Kalulu (6): Just like his colleague, it was a solid display with some good and bad moments. He seemed to be a little sloppy especially at the start of the game with a few misplaced passes that could’ve cost Milan more.
Hernandez (7): He was crucial for Milan after Leao was sent off given that he’s able to drive with the ball and trouble the Sampdoria defence on his own. He nearly had a goal as well, but the following corner gave Milan the penalty (so all good).
Tonali (7.5 – MOTM): He was everywhere tonight and really showed off his class both pre and post-red card. His vision for the game and, as was especially highlighted tonight, his defensive strength is absolutely key for Milan moving forward.
Pobega (6.5): Aside from a few misplaced passes, the youngster did really well in the centre of the pitch as he imposed himself against the strong Sampdoria midfielders. He also ran a lot, which obviously helped Milan.
Messias (7): Finally a good performance from the Brazilian, who got his first goal of the season with a calm finish. Perhaps the goalkeeper could have done better, but it was a good finish nevertheless and it was a decent display overall.
De Ketelaere (6.5): He was heavily involved in Milan’s first goal with a nice flick and there were also a few other very good moments from him tonight.
Leao (6): Two very unfortunate yellow cards. The first one shouldn’t have been given, while the second one can be debated (although usually those are given). He assisted the first goal and it’s harsh to blame him completely for the sending off, although it did put his teammates in a tough spot.
Giroud (7): He worked extremely hard and considering it was his fifth consecutive start (he played the full game today by the way), it was a great performance from him. He won the penalty and converted it – a great penalty indeed.
Substitutes
Tomori (6.5): He added the energy Milan’s defence needed and also allowed for the shift to a five-man backline. He made several good interceptions and looked good on the ball.
Bennacer (6.5): His ability to keep possession was needed for Milan and thus it was a smart sub by Pioli.
Vranckx (6): A positive debut with some good and bad moments, but more of the former. He certainly has a lot of potential.
