Sampdoria vs. AC Milan: Winners and Losers from Serie A

AC Milan’s five-match winless streak came to an end away to Sampdoria on Sunday evening, as they won, 1-0, thanks to a Carlos Bacca strike.

This was new manager Cristian Brocchi’s first game in charge of the Rossoneri, and at the final whistle, he looked visibly delighted to have kicked off his tenure with a victory.

The first half was one of few chances for either side. Sampdoria had the ball in the net through a header from their left wing-back, Dodo, only for the attempt to be ruled out for offside. Blucerchiati goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano then pulled off a magnificent reaction stop from close range to deny Milan from going in front on 32 minutes as the away side began to threaten.

The game opened up in the second period, though Bacca missed a good opportunity after attempting a rabona when a left-footed shot would have been more suitable. Fortunately, the Colombian would redeem himself on 72 minutes, firing home the only goal of the game after a good layoff from Giacomo Bonaventura.

From there, Milan managed to hold on to their narrow lead to seal an important win that takes them four points clear of Sassuolo in sixth place.

Read on to find out Bleacher Report’s winners and losers from a crucial Rossoneri victory in the race for European qualification.

Winner: Giacomo Bonaventura (Milan)

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Bonaventura has struggled for form of late, but he looked back to his best against Sampdoria.

Brocchi utilised the 26-year-old as the trequartista in a 4-3-1-2, and the player appeared to grow into the role as the match went on. He completed three dribbles, more than anyone else in a Milan shirt, and also made two key passes, one of which was an assist for the winning goal.

His movement and creativity were influential in the second half, though, as was proven with a poor through ball to Bacca on 69 minutes, his decision-making could be worked on if he is to maximise those attributes going forward.

Loser: Roberto Soriano (Sampdoria)

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Roberto Soriano is one of Sampdoria’s most integral players, but he struggled to make an impact on Sunday night before being substituted on 80 minutes.

The Italy international failed to complete one single dribble or key pass throughout the match and rarely looked threatening in his attacking midfield position behind Fabio Quagliarella.

Sampdoria have an abundance of talent in that area of the pitch, with Antonio Cassano, Ricardo Alvarez and Joaquin Correa all capable of playing there, meaning Soriano may either have to up his game or move into a more withdrawn position if he is to retain his place in the side.

Winner: Dodo (Sampdoria)

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Dodo almost gave Sampdoria the lead with a header in the first half, only to see his attempt ruled out for offside after a late flag by the linesman.

He continued unperturbed, however, offering a good outlet down the flank with his forward forays and balls into the box. The Brazilian left wing-back completed two dribbles and two crosses during the game.

After a disappointing spell at Inter Milan, this match gave more evidence that the 24-year-old is intent on reviving his career at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris.

Loser: Andrea Bertolacci (Milan)

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Andrea Bertolacci returned from suspension to line up in a midfield trident alongside Riccardo Montolivo and Juraj Kucka, but failed find a rhythm before being taken off on 53 minutes.

The 25-year-old was dispossessed four times before Brocchi decided to replace him with Andrea Poli. If he wants to reclaim his place in the side, he will have to offer more to his team when in possession, otherwise he could find himself on the substitutes’ bench.

Winner: Mario Balotelli (Milan)

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Mario Balotelli’s good form continued against Sampdoria, with the striker putting in a good shift to help his team out both in defence and attack.

In the first half, he was seen sprinting back into the left-back area to recover a ball he had lost, while he constantly proved a thorn to the home side with his hold-up play, which led to several free-kicks. In total, he was fouled seven times, more than anyone else on the pitch.

After the game, Brocchi was keen to praise the striker’s efforts, telling Mediaset Premium (h/t Football Italia), “Balotelli was fantastic and only lacked a goal tonight.”

If the 25-year-old can continue on this latest performance, he may well earn a permanent deal with Milan in the summer.

All statistics via WhoScored.com unless otherwise stated.