Tactical Review of AC Milan’s Valiant 3-2 Win Against Bologna

AC Milan finally managed to string together two wins in a row under Stefano Pioli with a 3-2 victory over Bologna. Here’s the review of the game:

Piatek Finally Creates Something

Piatek scored his fourth goal of the season albeit from the penalty spot. On a brighter note, Piatek actually drew the foul that won him the penalty. It was great to see the camaraderie in the group as Kessie gave up the penalty to support the struggling Piatek. Piatek did manage to have some decent chances against Bologna and finally looked like he has some sort of a first touch. His hold up play was slightly better and most importantly he managed to string together some passes to support the attack. If Piatek keeps working on the basic aspects of his game such as his control, passing and positioning he will be back to scoring in no time.

Bonaventura Gives Milan An Edge

Giacomo Bonaventura has returned to the Milan starting line up after about a year out with injury, in his absence Milan looked to the likes of Calhanoglu and Paqueta to offer dynamism in the midfield especially driving into the final third but both struggled. Since his return, Bonaventura has scored bangers winning the game against Bologna and tying the game with Napoli. The trick with Bonaventura are his late runs into the box offering an additional target for the wingers also taking advantage of the poor clearances but under pressure defences. His movements always keep the opposition guessing and he has the ability to strike the ball beautiful into the corner of the goal. It been a huge boost to have him back as he gives the team an edge.

Less Possession, More Goals

Milan changed their game plan against Bologna, they took a much more direct approach at goal and were not scared off losing possession or making mistakes as they pressed constantly and high up the pitch to win the ball back. The change in tactics meant Milan did not dominate possession but were much more productive than any other game this season. Throughout the game Milan took their chances and looked to pass vertically forward more than their usual safe horizontal passing leading to increased chances and a better attack output. Milan are looking refreshed under Stefano Pioli and they need to string wins together to get the season back on track.

The Two Sides Of Theo

Theo Hernandez scored an unprecedented 4th goal of the season beating Kaladzhe’s record from 2001. His is the Rossoneri’s first left back to score 4 goals in their first season and he has more than half a season to go. His attacking output has been unbelievable but against Bologna, he absolutely bumbled his defensive duties directly leading to both of Bologna’s goals. He knocked in an own goal off a corner with his arm for their first goal and then make a silly tackle in the box when he had Lucas Biglia covering him to concede a penalty leading to the second goal. Hernandez is not doing great at keeping his composure in Milan’s own box showing some cracks.

Alessio Bounces Back

Milan Captain Alessio Romagnoli looks to have bounced back after a difficult couple of games when he did not look sure of himself when defending. The centre back was also involved in a car accident this past week and looks to have recovered in time for the game despite having to wear a ‘hair net.’ Romagnoli looks much better and more comfortable leading the backline despite conceding twice, he also evoked significant confidence going forward and pulled off some impressive long passes and exchanges with Ismael Bennacer. Milan are short of centre backs as Caldara and Duarte are not fit to play but if Musacchio and Romagnoli can rediscover their chemistry they can successfully see out the season.