As a long time Milan fan, there is nothing like dominating in the Champions League. If we can recall, Milan looked weak and young the last time they entered the grand stage of the Champions League. Today, against Zagreb, the Rossoneri showed they are ready to take the next step and prove they have the endurance to put on a world class performance on the biggest stage.
For the first half of this game, the attacking was mostly done by the Milan side as Brahim Diaz showed his pressure and urgency to push forward. Olivier Giroud had a few nice deliveries from the Brazilian but couldn’t get his footing right to put it behind the net. Leao also made himself very much involved by showing his strength to stay on the ball. His ability to stay on the ball would be costly for Zagreb as Sutalo fails to keep up with the Portuguese International and causes a penalty. Giroud has been confident at the spot and blasted the penalty passed the Zagreb goal keeper giving Milan the lead 1-0 in the 45′ min just before the half time whistle.
The second half maintained the same tenacity as Milan moved the ball forward and Leao continued to dominate the left wing. Around the 47′ min, Leao put in additional work and managed a beautiful delivery to our European Dark Horse Alexis Saelemaekers who pierces his way towards the middle of the box like a big cat hunting its prey as he connects with a header and puts the ball in the back of the net giving Milan a 2 goal lead.
Shortly after the Alexis goal, Zagreb pulls back a goal from a nice give n’ go play between Orsic and Petkovic to make the score 2-1.
And then Mr. Pobega. In the last game, we witnessed the power of Pobega’s left foot but was unfortunately called off. In this Champions League game, it was not called off as Pobega smashes the ball, hitting the inside of the top cross bar and bouncing into the net to make the game 3-1 to the Rossoneri.
An incredible performance from the Red & Black, however, the campaign continues on Sunday as they face a determined Napoli team. Napoli has not only been a viable contender in the Serie A but have also been dominating in the Champions League. Milan need to remember they are the Champions of Italy and play with as much intensity as they did today, maybe more.
The Milan Club So.Cal group will be at Fox & Hounds. If you would like to join, please use this link to let us know, The Fox & Hounds – Watch Party – Milan Vs Napoli.
