Real Madrid 1-3 AC Milan: Player Ratings - Rossoneri Dominate in Pre-Season Thriller
The Santiago Bernabéu witnessed a captivating pre-season clash as AC Milan outplayed Real Madrid 1-3 in a thrilling encounter. The Rossoneri's dominance was evident throughout the match, with their pressing game and clinical finishing proving too much for the Spanish giants. Let's delve into the individual performances with our player ratings:
Real Madrid:
- Courtois (6.5): The Belgian shot-stopper made a couple of crucial saves, including a penalty stop, but couldn't prevent the Rossoneri's onslaught.
- Carvajal (6): A solid performance defensively, but lacked the usual attacking threat down the right flank.
- Rüdiger (5.5): Found himself out of position on occasion, struggling to cope with Milan's swift transitions.
- Alaba (6): A composed presence in the backline, though his usual attacking contributions were limited.
- Mendy (5.5): Struggled defensively against the pace and skill of Milan's wingers.
- Camavinga (6): Energetic in midfield, but lacked the precision needed to unlock the Milan defense.
- Modrić (6): Experienced as always, but his influence waned as the match progressed.
- Valverde (5.5): Failed to impose himself in midfield, making some sloppy passes and losing possession too easily.
- Rodrygo (6.5): Brightest spark in the Real Madrid attack, showing glimpses of his potential but ultimately lacking the support needed to truly shine.
- Vinicius Jr. (5.5): Frustrated by the Milan defense, unable to consistently threaten with his usual dribbling skills.
- Benzema (6): Struggled to impact the game, but scored a late penalty to give Real Madrid a consolation goal.
AC Milan:
- Maignan (7): A commanding presence between the sticks, making a few crucial saves and displaying excellent shot-stopping ability.
- Calabria (7): Solid defensively and provided a dangerous outlet down the right flank.
- Tomori (8): Dominant in the heart of the defense, winning almost every aerial duel and making numerous key interceptions.
- Thiaw (7.5): A strong and composed performance alongside Tomori, showing impressive positional awareness.
- Theo Hernandez (8): A constant threat down the left flank, showcasing his pace, dribbling skills, and a powerful assist for the opening goal.
- Krunić (7): Worked tirelessly in midfield, breaking up play and winning possession.
- Pobega (7): Energetic and dynamic, driving forward with purpose and providing a constant threat.
- Reijnders (7.5): Showed impressive control and vision in midfield, dictating the tempo of the game.
- Leao (8): Electric performance, showcasing his pace, skill, and a clinical finish for his goal.
- Giroud (7): A constant menace in the box, winning headers, creating space for teammates, and scoring the second goal.
- Pulisic (7): Impressed with his pace, dribbling, and ability to create chances.
Key Takeaways:
- AC Milan's pressing game and strong defensive structure were instrumental in their victory.
- The Rossoneri showcased an attacking prowess that was evident throughout the match.
- Real Madrid lacked their usual fluidity and struggled to create clear-cut chances.
- The return of key players like Leao and Giroud significantly boosted AC Milan's offensive capabilities.
This pre-season encounter provided a fascinating glimpse into the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. AC Milan showcased their potential to compete at the highest level, while Real Madrid will need to refine their game if they are to maintain their dominance in La Liga and Europe.