Milan bounced back from a disappointing Champions League loss to Borussia Dortmund with a comprehensive 3-1 win against Frosinone. Stefano Pioli’s injury-hit lineup delivered a decent home performance, making it two Serie A wins on the trot and bridging the gap on leaders Juventus to four points.
After a relatively slow start to the game, Milan found a vital breakthrough on the stroke of halftime as Luka Jovic opened his Rossoneri account with a delightful half-volley. Only five minutes into the second half, Pioli’s side doubled their lead through Christian Pulisic, who received a precise long ball from Mike Maignan and finished with aplomb.
Jovic turned from scorer to provider, heading down the ball into the feet of Fikayo Tomori. The English defender couldn’t miss from just a couple of yards out to fire Milan into a cruising lead with around 15 minutes left on the clock. However, the 19-time Serie A champions failed to keep a clean sheet again.
Marco Brescianini scored a consolation goal for Frosinone in the 82nd minute. His strike didn’t impact the outcome as Eusebio Di Francesco’s team extended their unimpressive form on the road, going winless on all seven top-flight travels this term (D2, L5).
As for Milan, tonight’s win has settled some nerves after Dortmund left them on the brink of Champions League elimination.
Milan (4-3-3)
Mike Maignan – 7.5
Back to his usual best, the French goalkeeper pulled off a crucial save to thwart Marvin Cuni in a one-v-one moments before Jovic’s opener. On top of his impressive goalkeeping skills, he recorded an assist.
Davide Calabria – 6.5
The Milan captain put on another solid defensive performance, plugging all holes on the right-hand side. But his attacking showing left a lot to be desired again.
Theo Hernandez – 7.5
He can do everything! Forced to play at the heart of Pioli’s backline amid a severe injury crisis, the 26-year-old went from strength to strength. In addition to making numerous crucial tackles, he wasn’t afraid to venture forward on every occasion.
Alessandro Florenzi – 6
While no one can argue his commitment and desire, the Italian’s attacking limitations let Milan down several times tonight. Imprecise crosses and poor decision-making blew a handful of decent half-chances.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek – 7.5
His midfield presence was of paramount importance to Milan’s victory this evening. Strong on the ball and equally determined at winning it back, he kept the Rossoneri engine room tick over in tumultuous times.
Tijjani Reijnders – 7
Following a disastrous performance against Dortmund, the Dutchman returned to his usual best, distributing the ball around the pitch with precision and purpose.
Yunus Musah – 7
Arguably his best showing since joining Milan from Valencia in the summer! The USMNT star put in a shift, providing immense help to his defense and making numerous exciting forward runs.
Christian Pulisic – 7.5
Took Rafael Leao’s place on the left wing and excelled! The goal came as a fitting reward for an eye-catching individual brilliance from the former Chelsea winger.
Samuel Chukwueze – 6
If Pioli hoped the Nigerian’s inspiring showing against Dortmund could be a turning point, tonight’s game renewed his doubts. The left-footed forward had too many loose touches.
Luka Jovic – 8
Harsh criticism might have come to fruition as the Serbian mustered a match-winning performance! Scored and assisted for the first time in the Milan jersey to inspire his side to a pivotal win.
Substitutes
Yacine Adli – 6.5
Did reasonably well to help Milan keep control of possession since coming on.
Ismael Bennacer – 6
Back to action after a lengthy spell on the sidelines, the Algerian drew a standing ovation when taking the field in the 79th minute. Showed glimpses of his well-documented potential.
Chaka Traore – 6
Given too little time to showcase his burgeoning talent.
Tommaso Pobega – 5.5
Worked hard down the final stretch but did nothing noteworthy.
Francesco Camarda – N/A
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