AC MILAN v LAZIO: THE DEBRIEFING

Another Serie A win, the team’s third one on the trot in the space of a week. After Verona and Cagliari, the 2-0 victory over the Biancocelesti was the most convincing performance-wise, especially given the quality of the opposition. Let’s take a closer look at the factors that decided the San Siro showdown.

STAMINA AND FLUIDITY
AC Milan won the game in the second half, raising the tempo and, above all, being more aggressive in trying to win the ball back close to the opposition box. Supported by their legs and lungs, the Rossoneri suffocated Lazio, giving them very little chance to build. AC Milan’s persistence led to Pulisic’s goal on the hour mark and Okafor’s finish late on, even if the second could have arrived earlier following chances for Musah, Tomori, Reijnders and Pulisic (a move very similar to the one that resulted in his goal). AC Milan maintained their tempo, focus and fluidity until the very end, only dropping slightly deeper for a few minutes before doubling their advantage. Despite making chances, Lazio were unable to match the intensity of Pioli’s side, who only gained in energy following the introduction of their substitutes, most notably Pobega, Florenzi and Okafor.  

DEFENSIVE SOLIDITY
In their first four outings of the season - including the derby - AC Milan kept just one clean sheet, against Bologna on the opening matchday. They then conceded once against both Torino and Roma and five times against the Nerazzurri. The heavy defeat in the cross-city clash inevitably led to more focus from the team, who have done better defensively since - and not just statistically. The Rossoneri allowed Newcastle and Verona to have just one shot each, with Sportiello doing brilliantly in both of these instances. Then came Luvumbo’s goal in Cagliari and the crumbs Lazio were left with at San Siro. The result? Three clean sheets in four games, just one goal conceded and a solid-looking team. With two new faces in the line-up compared to the one that started in Sardinia, the Diavolo never really had to dig in against a Biancocelesti side who are likely to be up there come the end of the season. Solidity will continue to be key going forward. 

THE LEÃO FACTOR
Even when the system is working and the new arrivals are settling in well, there’s a certainty within the ranks when things get tough: Rafael Leão. His performance against the Biancocelesti probably wasn’t the most blistering one he’s ever produced, but he ultimately made the difference. Two notable bursts forward and two assists. Like a champion, he took centre stage at key moments. September has been like this for him: fewer fireworks but decisive when required. His acrobatic finish against Roma, his goal against Verona, his two assists against Lazio: the Rossoneri’s summer transfer activity has led to change in the way the team attack, and Rafa has adapted by being even more incisive with fewer touches. This is what champions do, especially during matches like yesterday’s.

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