In North London, Milan booked their spot in the Champions League quarter-final with a goalless draw against Tottenham Hotspur. The Rossoneri had won the first leg at home with a solitary goal from Brahim Diaz, and it proved to be the lone difference between the two sides throughout the double-header. Stefano Pioli’s men failed to pounce on a flurry of chances, but their solid backline minimalized Spurs’ attacking threat. So when Cristian Romero received his marching orders, the writing was on the wall. So here are our player ratings for Milan who secured their spot amongst the European elite at the expense of Tottenham.
Milan (3-4-2-1)
Mike Maignan – 7
Although we expected the former Lille goalkeeper to have more on the plate, he still had to earn his clean sheet with an exceptional save on Harry Kane in added time.
Pierre Kalulu – 6.5
The Frenchman was arguably the least impressive among the Diavolo’s defensive trio as he had some nervy moments on the ball. Yet, it remains a competent display overall.
Malick Thiaw – 7.5
Slowly but surely, the young German is establishing himself as the crown jewel of Pioli’s backline. Imposed his will in his personal duel against Kane, and was often first on the ball.
Fikayo Tomori – 7
A splendid performance from the former Chelsea defender against his compatriots, showcasing heart and determination.
Junior Messias – 6
A decent if unspectacular display from the former Crotone man. He surely doesn’t lack courage, but should have done better with the goal at his mercy.
Sandro Tonali – 7
A midfield clinic from the Italian international who bossed the middle of the park. Won back the ball on countless occasions and had a key role in building up the play.
Rade Krunic – 6.5
While he wasn’t as influential as his midfield partner, the Bosnian never dropped his guard down during the 90+ minutes, doing all the required dirty work.
Theo Hernandez – 7
A menacing display on the left flank from the former Real Madrid man. One of his runs eventually prompted the second yellow card for Romero, which essentially won the tie for Milan.
Brahim Diaz – 7
A scintillating display from the Spaniard who only lacked a signature moment. In other words, it would have been a perfect outing had he managed to produce a goal. The opposition defenders had no answer for his dazzling runs.
Rafael Leao – 6
A mixed bag from the Portuguese who enjoyed some spectacular moments, but also missed preciseness at times.
Olivier Giroud – 6
The former Arsenal and Chelsea man would have loved to score one against his old rivals, but didn’t have too many opportunities. Nevertheless, he made himself useful for his teammates and worked hard off the ball, but his energy levels dropped in the second half.
Substitutes
Alexis Saelemaekers – 6
The Belgian committed a blunder that could have cost Milan by giving the ball away to Kane, but managed to bounce back with a decent showing.
Ismael Bennacer – 6
The Algerian helped the visitors in maintaining possession and safely reaching the finish line.
Divock Origi – 6
The Champions League expert almost killed off the match, but his shot was denied by the post.
Ante Rebic – N/A
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