BORUSSIA DORTMUND v AC MILAN: THE DEBRIEFING

The 0-0 draw that was played out over 90 minutes in Dortmund shared many similarities with the opening Champions League game at home to Newcastle, but the major difference seen at the BVB Stadion Dortmund were two evenly-matched teams. In fact, it was a hard-fought affair for the most part, with both sides having several good chances to score. It remains a good point for AC Milan nonetheless, who threatened throughout and regularly got into their opponent's 18-yard box. In our Debriefing, let's analyse three aspects that came out of the goalless draw between the Gialloneri and Rossoneri.

DEFENCES ON TOP AGAIN
One definite positive sign is a second consecutive clean sheet in the Champions League, in what was a tricky away trip against a side who prize themselves on their attacking prowess. Even in Dortmund, in a fiery atmosphere, the determination shown by the Rossoneri players to not concede a goal emerged. The defence, supported by every involved, held firm strongly once again. Maignan did not have to make any wonder saves, while Thiaw and Tomori limited the opposition's forward attacks. The test was passed by all three: Mike replied when called upon, with Malick given the tough task of marking Füllkrug out of the game and Tomori dedicated to closing off any space found on the backline. The victorious goal never came, but the clean sheet did - our fourth in the last five outings - and that couldn't make AC Milan prouder.

ENERGY AND CHARACTER
It wasn't a ferocious and aggressive AC Milan from the first until the last minute, but it was AC Milan that tried to manage their energy output - without going overboard - yet still attacking consistently. The Rossoneri stayed patient in their search for the goal that would have unblocked a tight and tough match. Just as they did recently in the game with Lazio, the Rossoneri were clever in accelerating with impetus during their best moments, but couldn't find the right knockout punch this time around. The entire group of players took part and were involved in the game, something that should not be taken lightly following the packed schedule of late. The subs made an impact and gave new life on the attacking front, with Coach Pioli's side driving forward with more intensely in the second half as the game wore on. The home side's 'yellow wall' test was also passed. The Rossoneri played with maturity and character, without crumbling in front of a hostile home crowd, thanks also to the loud and incessant 4000-strong Milanisti, who made the trip to Germany.

GOALSCORING
In the 0-0 on German soil, the most damning issue was the Rossoneri's inability to not put the ball in the back of the net following the numerous number of chances created. Borussia Dortmund often pushed forward in numbers, and consequently leaving lots of gaps and holes to attack. AC Milan tried to make the most of this through breakaways by Leão and Theo on the left-hand side and with their inside forwards' runs. Just as it happened during the game against Newcastle, the Rossoneri had many goalscoring opportunities, but were unable to take them. The 14 shots on goal are a clear testament to that. Clarity with the final pass or shot was missing at times, while the Rossoneri's efforts were denied by the Gialloneri backline and saves from Kobel. The goals will inevitably come in Europe though, if we can continue to create this much, hopefully starting from the next match.

The AC Milan PUMA Kits for 2023/24 are available: buy them now!