Auxerre 0, Milan 2: Another Ibra Inspired Win As Ronaldinho Scores His First

There is little doubt now; Milan has become the Ibra Show. After single-handedly steering Milan to important wins over Inter and Fiorentina with match winning goals, Zlatan Ibrahimovic again proved to be the difference for Milan as he ensured his side's progression to the next round of the Champions League.

In an unspectacular and relatively even game, Ibrahimovic was at the heart of everything positive for Max Allegri’s side.

The big Swede provided the first real chance for Milan after a neat knock down sent Seedorf through. Then it was his attempted through ball for Robinho that fell nicely to Gennaro Gattuso, though in typical fashion the Calabrese failed to convert. He then sent Ignazio Abate on his way down the wing to cross for Robinho who was unable to shoot in time. Then, finally, the Swede showed his teammates just how it is done. Shooting first time from a loose ball the Swede struck with an absolute thunderbolt.

His time at Milan has been short, but already Ibrahimovic has become absolutely indispensable. Max Allegri has fashioned his new look Milan side around the incredible abilities of his No. 11 and it is paying dividends. Milan are top of the table in Serie A with qualification attained for the next round of the Champions League with one match remaining.

Things are looking rosier every week in the red half of Milan. However, there is always a certain risk when a team becomes too reliant on one single player. Injury, poor form or suspension to Ibrahimovic and Milan would be greatly weakened. But for now, the season is progressing along rather nicely for the Rossoneri.

Again, the main protagonists for Milan against Auxerre alongside Ibrahimovic were Milan’s central defensive pairing of Thiago Silva and Alessandro Nesta. The two have built up a strong partnership the last two seasons and they were again pivotal in keeping Auxerre at bay.

Milan full back Ignazio Abate was sound at the back. Abate did also manage to get forward a number of times, though he is capable of offering more in attack.

The midfield trio of Mathieu Flamini, Massimo Ambrosini and Gennaro Gattuso were dutiful in the middle. Though against a French side that was set up to defend, more creativity was needed, but unfortunately there is little to spare from these three.

Clarence Seedorf continued to justify his place as trequartista. The Dutchman is clearly much more comfortable in this role and with the years of experience behind him he plays this role simply and effectively.

Robinho showed a little improvement, though Milan fans will be expecting much more improvement in the future along with Max Allegri.

After coming on with just minutes remaining, Ronaldinho reminded everyone that he still has the magic, popping up with a well taken goal to secure victory. It was the Brazilian’s first goal for Milan this season.

But the star of the show for Milan was Ibrahimovic, again. The Swede has to be considered one of the best strikers in the world at the moment. Only on loan, his performances so far this season should already have convinced the Milan hierarchy to bring him in permanently for next season.  

It has been a glorious ten days for the Rossoneri. Victory in the derby gave the Rossoneri bragging rights over Inter, the win over Fiorentina extended their lead at the top of the table and now qualification has been secured in the Champions League. Forza Milan, or perhaps more appropriately we should chant, Ibra Ibra Ibra.