Why AC Milan's Win over Real Madrid Will Spur the Rossoneri Back into Europe
Even though it was just a friendly, Milan's 4-2 win over Real Madrid was a statement for the new year that this team is taking the next step under coach Filippo Inzaghi.
The team fought hard and looked like a unit brimming with chemistry, often slicing their way past Madrid's defense with clever passing combinations and tricky one-twos.
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Sure, you might hear that Milan only beat a Real Madrid side without their best starting XI. However, most of those substitutes used by the Spanish giants would instantly start in a Milan lineup.
The Rossoneri have to hold their heads high, and Inzaghi did a wonderful job of playing the champagne football Silvio Berlusconi craves so much.
Riccardo Montolivo was a big reason for that beautiful football in the first half. Milan's captain did his best Xabi Alonso impersonation in the center of the park, showing vision in picking apart Madrid's defense while also coming forward and taking a crack on goal.
Often, teams are choked in their own half against far superior opponents, but the Rossoneri came right out of the gates with plenty of confidence against a side that have won their last 22 in all competitions under Carlo Ancelotti.
Milan once again went into a match without a real No. 9 leading the line. An attacking trident of Stephan El Shaarawy, Jeremy Menez and Giacomo Bonaventura was deployed from the opening minute, and they didn't disappoint.
El Shaarawy netted a much-needed brace after sitting on the bench from the opening whistle in the last two Serie A outings, showcasing his quickness and finishing ability in front of goal.
The pace of Milan's counter was also evident, and it'll be further amplified once Alessio Cerci is thrown into the mix. Cerci should start right away on the right wing, especially since Keisuke Honda won't be available due to Asian Cup responsibilities.
The biggest improvement for Milan has nothing to do with the attack. The main reason for optimism going forward has everything to do with the much-improved play from the defensive line, most notably the center backs.
The usually maligned Philippe Mexes has seemingly turned his career around after being shunned in the opening months of the campaign and has now instilled himself as a must-start in the heart of the defense. His timing and tackling were key components not only of Milan's stout defense against Real Madrid but also of the two clean sheets they kept against Napoli and Roma in recent times.
Alex also had a positive display against the Merengues and should slot in right next to Mexes once the 2015 calendar year rolls around and Milan open up the Serie A against Sassuolo.
With two positive displays against Roma and Napoli in the last few Serie A matches doubled by an impressive win against the reigning Champions League winners, Milan have plenty to look forward to as they look to climb back into third position and get themselves back into Europe.
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