Olivier Giroud’s brace and Brahim Diaz’ impressive display helps AC Milan overpower Cagliari 4-1 at the San Siro.
AC Milan maintained their winning start to the Serie A season with a resounding win over Cagliari at the San Siro. The hosts were overwhelming favourites against Cagliari, having won the previous 17-meetings at the venue. The victory sends the Rossoneri into the fourth peace on the table before the international break.
Milan continued that run and provided their fans with an entertaining win in the season’s first home match. Goals from Olivier Giroud, Rafael Leao and Sandro Tonali were enough to secure three points, although Alessandro Deiola’s equaliser early on did cause some concerns. However, the Rossoneri rallied through and put up a considerable show before the half-time whistle to put the game beyond Cagliari’s reach.
Tonali opened the scoring with an expertly taken free-kick before Deiola’s equalised with a well-taken header. Leao then scored around the 17th minute, followed by Giroud’s brace, including a penalty. 4-1 down at half-time,
Cagliari had no chance to mount a comeback, as Milan held their own to secure a resounding victory. One player who did all the creative work was Brahim Diaz, who was involved in three at least. The Spaniard was our player to watch in the build-up to this clash and duly delivered on the promise.
Here are the ratings from Milan’s victory over Cagliari at the San Siro.
Mike Maignan – 6/10
A quiet game for the goalkeeper as he had barely anything to do. He made a smart save from a free-kick and could not protect his goal from Deiola’s equaliser. With Cagliari barely threatening throughout the game, Maignan will have greater challenges in the season ahead.
Davide Calabria – 6/10
Calabria struggled against Deiola during the first half and was culpable for Cagliari’s equaliser. To compensate for his defensive lapses, Calabria did provide ample firepower in attacking areas.
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Simon Kjaer – 7/10
Rock-solid in defence and marshalled the backline expertly, although was equally culpable for the equaliser. Should become more prominent as the season goes on, his form would be crucial to Milan’s progress this term.
Fikayo Tomori – 6/10
Tomori wasn’t as imperious as his centre-back partner Kjaer but effective nonetheless. His understanding with Calabria was a bit underwhelming at times. Provided spark in attack at times while almost nabbing a goal with a volley that was saved.
Theo Hernandez – 7/10
Hernandez was in his usual self, making marauding attacking runs, which almost resulted in a goal for Giroud. However, he would be happy with his heavy involvement in at least two goals.
Sandro Tonali – 7/10
A brilliant free-kick to open the scoring for Milan. As a midfield operator, Tonali provided decent screening and progressed the ball well into attacking areas. He was taken off as the game was over.
Rade Krunic – 6.5/10
In place of the injured Frank Kessie, Krunic had a busy time alongside Tonali. The midfielder had a good time making crucial interceptions and progressing the ball well.
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Brahim Diaz – 8/10
A terrific performance from Diaz, at his creative best, driving play. He won the penalty and was involved in the other two goals as well, got an assist for Giroud’s goal too.
Alexis Saelemaekers – 6.5/10
Saelemaekers was hard-working and industrious throughout the game. The Belgian may not grab headlines, but manager Stefano Pioli will surely appreciate his work rate.
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Olivier Giroud – 9/10
Giroud scored his first goals for Milan and had a fantastic home debut. The Frenchman was at his graceful self and involved in everything good that was created behind him.
Rafael Leao – 7.5/10
Slowly forming a formidable role in the attack, and it’s been brewing since last season. He got a goal to justify the rising form and should grow towards becoming a key player under Pioli this season.
Substitutes
Ante Rebic – 6/10
A decent introduction, although he failed to score or provide anything of substance in the second half.
Alessandro Florenzi – 5/10
He came on for his new club to provide some cover in defence, did just fine.
Ismael Bennacer – 5/10
We had primed him to start instead of Krunic but should be satisfied with his cameo appearance.
