Player Ratings: Real Madrid vs AC Milan (1-3)
The first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 clash between Real Madrid and AC Milan served up an unexpected and enthralling encounter, with the Rossoneri emerging victorious with a resounding 3-1 win at the Santiago Bernabéu. While the result itself was a shock, the performances of individual players were crucial in shaping the narrative of the match. Let's delve into the player ratings from this captivating encounter:
Real Madrid:
- Thibaut Courtois (5/10): Despite being one of the best goalkeepers in the world, Courtois had an off night. He was caught out of position for the first goal and couldn't prevent the other two.
- Dani Carvajal (6/10): A solid performance from the right-back, offering both defensive stability and occasional forays forward. He was, however, often isolated against the attacking threat of Rafael Leao.
- Éder Militão (6/10): A consistent performer at the back, Militão battled hard against the Rossoneri attackers. However, he struggled with Leao's pace at times, particularly for the first goal.
- David Alaba (5/10): A disappointing showing from the Austrian defender. He looked shaky at times, particularly against the pace and dribbling skills of Leao, and was ultimately substituted at halftime.
- Nacho (6/10): Brought on at halftime, Nacho provided some much-needed defensive stability on the left side. He held his own against the likes of Brahim Diaz and Theo Hernandez.
- Luka Modrić (6/10): The veteran midfielder tried his best to dictate the pace of the game, but the Rossoneri's pressing and intensity stifled his creativity.
- Aurelien Tchouaméni (6/10): A workhorse in midfield, Tchouaméni put in a shift both defensively and offensively. However, he lacked the incisiveness and spark needed to break down the Milan defense.
- Toni Kroos (6/10): An underwhelming performance from the German maestro. He lacked his usual composure and control, failing to find his rhythm throughout the match.
- Federico Valverde (7/10): The most potent attacking threat for Real Madrid, Valverde constantly challenged the Milan defense with his pace and runs. He was unfortunate not to score, but his relentless energy was commendable.
- Vinicius Júnior (6/10): While he tried to create opportunities, Vinicius lacked his usual sharpness and consistency. He was often marked out of the game by the Milan defense.
- Karim Benzema (5/10): A disappointing night for the French striker. He was well-marshaled by the Milan defense and failed to make any real impact on the game. His only notable contribution was the penalty he converted.
AC Milan:
- Mike Maignan (7/10): A rock in the Milan goal. Maignan made several crucial saves, including a penalty stop, to deny Real Madrid a chance to get back into the game.
- Pierre Kalulu (7/10): A solid defensive display from the young Frenchman. He was resolute in his tackling and strong in aerial duels, keeping a dangerous attacker like Vinicius at bay.
- Malick Thiaw (7/10): A commanding presence in the Milan defense, Thiaw held his own against the relentless attacks from Real Madrid, effectively neutralizing the threat of Benzema.
- Fikayo Tomori (7/10): Another impressive performance from the English defender. He was strong in tackles, excellent in aerial duels, and kept a tight lid on Vinicius.
- Theo Hernandez (8/10): A complete performance from the French fullback. He was a constant threat going forward, delivering accurate crosses and creating chances. He also showcased his defensive prowess, containing Valverde's forays down the right flank.
- Sandro Tonali (8/10): The heart and soul of the Milan midfield. He was a tireless worker, breaking up play, winning possession, and dictating the pace of the game. His performance was instrumental in stifling Real Madrid's midfield creativity.
- Rade Krunić (7/10): A vital presence in midfield, Krunić provided defensive cover and initiated attacks with his incisive passing. His work rate was commendable, constantly chasing the ball and disrupting the Real Madrid rhythm.
- Brahim Diaz (7/10): A lively and energetic performance from the Spanish attacker. He created numerous chances for his teammates, including the assist for Leao's opening goal, and caused havoc for the Real Madrid defense with his quick feet and dribbling skills.
- Rafael Leão (9/10): A truly remarkable performance from the Portuguese winger. His pace, dribbling, and finishing were simply unstoppable. He was a nightmare for the Real Madrid defense, scoring the first goal and terrorizing them throughout the match.
- Olivier Giroud (7/10): A tireless workhorse upfront, Giroud led the line brilliantly, holding the ball up, bringing others into play, and offering a constant threat. He was unlucky not to score but his performance was a valuable contribution to Milan's victory.
Overall:
This was a night to remember for AC Milan, who showcased their resilience and attacking prowess against a formidable opponent. Rafael Leão was undoubtedly the star of the show, proving to be an unstoppable force for the Rossoneri. The win will give Milan a significant advantage heading into the second leg, but Real Madrid will be keen to bounce back and prove that they are still the kings of Europe.
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