AC Milan delivered a statement performance against Udinese, securing a commanding 3-0 victory that not only halted Udinese’s unbeaten run but also firmly established Milan’s credentials as a formidable force in the league. The spotlight, without question, belonged to Christian Pulisic, whose two goals and pivotal role in another marked a match-winning display.
Christian Pulisic celebrates one of his two goals against Udinese.
Milan`s Offensive Onslaught: A Message Sent
The match at Udine was widely regarded as a significant test for Milan, following impressive performances against Juventus and preceding the eagerly anticipated clash with Inter. Milan passed with flying colors, dismantling Udinese within 46 minutes of play. This wasn`t just a win; it was a declaration. Head Coach Stefano Pioli, though serving a suspension and observing from the highest echelons of the press box, must have felt a mix of pride and perhaps a familiar frustration at his team`s occasional inefficiencies, even as they dominated.
Udinese, surprisingly fielding Ekkelenkamp in midfield from the start and maintaining Davis and Bravo in attack, struggled to find their rhythm. Zaniolo, a notable absentee from the starting XI, only made an appearance in the second half, a move that proved too little, too late.
Pulisic: The American Maestro in Full Flow
From the opening whistle, Christian Pulisic was a whirlwind of activity, a constant threat that Udinese`s defense found increasingly difficult to contain. He absorbed no fewer than three heavy fouls in the initial half-hour, one requiring medical attention, sparking protests from the Milan bench. This aggression, however, only seemed to fuel his determination.
Milan’s breakthrough came courtesy of a beautifully orchestrated move. A cross from the enterprising Estupinan, a deflection from Kristensen, and a parried save from Udinese goalkeeper Sava left Pulisic perfectly positioned to pounce. It was a classic poacher’s finish, showcasing his innate ability to be in the right place at the right time. Whether deployed as a winger, attacking midfielder, or, as here, a second striker, Pulisic consistently delivers, proving an invaluable asset to the Rossoneri.
Behind the attacking prowess, Milan’s defense and midfield, marshaled by the ever-influential veteran maestro Modrić and the tireless Rabiot, performed with admirable solidity. Udinese managed precious few attempts on Terracciano’s goal, testament to Milan`s well-drilled defensive compactness, securing yet another clean sheet.
Second Half Blitz: Fofana Joins the Party
The second half began with an immediate continuation of Milan’s dominance. Barely a minute after the restart, Pulisic was again at the heart of the action, driving into the box and being brought down by Karlstrom. While a penalty call might have been justified, the referee correctly allowed play to continue, and the ball fortuitously fell to Fofana. His right-footed shot caught Sava off guard at his near post, doubling Milan`s lead. It was a swift, clinical blow that left Udinese reeling.
Just seven minutes later, Pulisic struck again to complete his brace and Milan`s treble. A deft assist from Rabiot found the American international, who confidently beat Udinese`s number 90 to seal his second goal of the night. The match was effectively over. Udinese`s coach, Runjaic, responded with a flurry of substitutions, introducing Zaniolo, Zanoli, and Rui Modesto, but the damage was done. Milan, too, rotated their squad, bringing on Nkunku, Loftus-Cheek, Ricci, De Winter, and debutant Athekame, maintaining their attacking impetus right until the final whistle, with Sava remaining the busier of the two goalkeepers.
Looking Ahead: Milan`s Title Aspirations
This comprehensive victory, Milan’s third consecutive without conceding, speaks volumes about their current form and tactical discipline. It’s a message of strength not just to Udinese, who suffered their first defeat of the season, but to the entire league. The blend of defensive resilience, midfield control epitomized by the ageless Modrić, and the explosive attacking talent of players like Pulisic and Fofana paints a promising picture for the Rossoneri`s title challenge. Coach Pioli, even from his temporary perch, has clearly instilled a winning mentality that is now paying dividends on the pitch.
As for Udinese, this match serves as a harsh lesson. They will need to reassess their approach and find a way to replicate the intensity they`ve shown in other fixtures if they are to recover from this significant setback. For Milan, however, the road ahead looks bright, illuminated by the brilliance of Pulisic and the collective strength of a team hitting its stride.
