By Petar Todorovski
AC Milan took the lead in Italian Calcio after the 3:1 victory against the off-color team of Palermo, and Lazio’s defeat with relegation battlers Cesena. Zlatan Ibrahimovic led his team coming through the opponents, scoring one goal and adding an assist minutes later.
Ronladinho didn’t play from first minute as it was supposed. Allegri gave chance to Clarence Seedorf once again and didn’t go wrong. The Dutch mastermind was pulling all the strings in midfield securing domination for his team mates. Ibra played in attack alongside Alexandre Pato, after his great performance on previous match.
The game started slowly, but Rossoneri were determined to gain all three points and started to put pressure. They didn’t create any clear chances before Pato used a great pass by Seedorf to score a header after nineteen minutes. Milan retained possession till the end of the first half, not allowing Palermo to create opportunities to score, mostly due to keeping Javier Pastore without the ball. They tried to attack Abbiati’s goal but few not threatening counter attacks.
Guests’ chances to gain something from this game were seriously lowered when Pastore had to be substituted because of injury only five minutes after restart. In that moment it seemed that nothing can prevent AC Milan from acquiring another victory, but things turned to be bad. Armin Bacinovic smashed the ball from 25 yards and equalized in 63th minute. Christian Abbbiati had to react better although his sight was covered by two defenders, but the ball passed closely by him.
The game proceeded with more chances for the home team. Clarence Seedorf hit the post, few minutes before Massimo Ambrosini was struck in the box by keeper Sirigu. The referee pointed to the spot. Ibrahimovic took the responsibility and blasted the ball into the down right corner.
Right after Rossoneri were hit by injuries of Pato and Inzaghi. Pato made an excellent solo action, entered into the penalty area and fell down, requesting to be substituted immediately. Filippo Inzaghi came on, but he played only a few minutes before Robinho took his place on the pitch.
The Brazilian scored the last goal reacting well after a superb assist by Zlatan Ibrahimovic. They missed another great scoring opportunity until the end. They both were alone face to face with Sirigu. Robinho had the ball and tried to pass it to Ibra. All he had to do was just to tap the ball in, but the slow-moving assist-try was met by Palermo defense.
Although they top the Serie A table now, coach Allegri played down talks about Scudetto, claiming that it was too early. He repeated that Milan is growing as a team, but he was suspicious about the way Pato’s and Inzaghi’s injuries would reflect the team.
These injuries are coming hours before the most important game in season for Rossoneri fans – against Inter. Aside them, Pirlo didn’t play today’s game and is still doubtful for the next one.
However, at least Allegri’s goal for strengthening the team spirit was accomplished, although if injuries are serious it might be shaken off little bit. Nevertheless, we are expecting an exciting derby.
