GdS: Leao provides clinical touch as Milan send strong signal to Scudetto rivals

"Despite a subpar performance, at least in the first half, Milan managed to send an important signal to their rivals with the win against Cagliari. And now they have the entire weekend to relish top spot in the standings. The opportunity to start the year, as highlighted by Gazzetta dello Sport (see photo at the bottom), was a true test of Milan's solidity and efficiency. From Sardinia, therefore, the Rossoneri sent a pretty important signal to their rivals after, once again, getting the job done."

"It was a game that included a fair portion of 'Allegrismo', with far from brilliant play but decisive actions in the important moments. Subsequently, the troubles against lower-ranked teams are seemingly vanishing too: Milan collected 6/6 points against Hellas Verona and Cagliari. Genoa are up next for the Rossoneri, a team currently just outside of the relegation zone, so it will be another opportunity to prove they have overcome the aforementioned difficulties."

"Leao, who returned after almost a month on the sidelines, wasn't at his best physically and he also struggled with his back towards the goal. However, when he faced the goalkeeper, he fired away the decisive blow early in the second half. Interestingly, it was the 12th time in the league that Milan had scored with their first shot on target (!)."

"It was also their 16th consecutive positive result, after the defeat against Cremonese in the opener, and they have never lost away from home. Furthermore, they have only conceded five goals on the road. Milan's No.10, with his 6th goal of the season, took the headlines as the only scorer but Adrien Rabiot was another key player (as we highlighted in our ratings too). He combined very well with his technique, getting the assist too, and worked hard for the entire game."

Milan secured a win over Cagliari despite a subpar first-half performance, maintaining top position in the standings. The victory relied on decisive actions and defensive solidity more than fluent play. Milan has collected six points from recent matches against Hellas Verona and Cagliari, suggesting troubles against lower-ranked teams are easing. Rafael Leao returned from nearly a month out and scored early in the second half for his sixth goal of the season. Milan registered their 12th league goal from their first shot on target, extended a long positive run, remained unbeaten away, and kept a ninth clean sheet, with Adrien Rabiot providing a key assist and work rate.

Read at SempreMilan