Milan made the most of Juve’s loss to Benevento earlier today as they secured three huge points away at Fiorentina, despite going down in the second half. It’s a performance that bodes well for the upcoming games, as the Rossoneri regained their fighting spirit and also found the back of the net, three times.
Stefano Pioli’s men have received some criticism lately for their play in the final third, having squandered way too many chances. Luckily, the attack came back to life today and it was certainly needed as Fiorentina scored twice, first to equalise and then to take the lead in the second half.
With Zlatan Ibrahimovic up front, Milan showed great mentality as they worked hard to earn the three points in the end. The fact that they scored many goals is an added bonus, but the most important thing was getting the three points. Down below are the top three performers, in no particular order.
1. Simon Kjaer
The Dane was crucial in the attacking phase, perhaps surprisingly, as he got the assist for Ibrahimovic’s opener with a great long ball over the top. He then won his duel on a corner and, albeit unknowingly, set Brahim Diaz up with a touch on his back. Two assists to his name, in other words, which is unusual for a centre-back.
Of course, he was also solid at the back and his partnership with Fikayo Tomori is looking really good. Hopefully, he will be able to stay healthy for the next couple of games as Milan are in a crucial period of the season, with a schedule that at least on paper is a bit easier (must-wins).
2. Fikayo Tomori
If Kjaer had a big hand in the goals, Tomori had a big hand in preventing Fiorentina from scoring more than the two they got. He won most of the duels with Dusan Vlahovic, which certainly isn’t easy, and he used his pace to intercept the ball on several occasions.
He was also crucial in the winning goal as instead of clearing the ball, he put it at Diaz’ feet despite being under great pressure. Based on his performances thus far, the €28m clause is looking like an absolute bargain and it would be very surprising if Milan decide not to redeem him in the summer.
3. Zlatan Ibrahimovic
The Swede’s return from start was certainly needed as we all know what he can do when he gets an opportunity, and also due to the fact that Milan have no other strikers available at the moment. He presented himself straight away with a nice goal after nine minutes, slotting it home with ease after managing to stay onside.
He nearly had a second before the first half was over, as he chipped the ball over the Fiorentina goalkeeper, who got lucky as the ball hit the bar. Overall, it was a positive display for Ibrahimovic and his importance in the attacking phase cannot be ignored, with 15 goals in 15 league appearances.
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