The Italian Serie A witnessed a masterclass in efficiency and calculated aggression as AC Milan carved out a commanding 3-0 away victory against Udinese. The result not only sent a clear message across the league but also ended Udinese`s commendable unbeaten streak for the season. At the heart of Milan`s triumph was the scintillating performance of American forward Christian Pulisic, who bagged a brace and was instrumental in the creation of another goal.
Christian Pulisic celebrates his opening goal for AC Milan against Udinese.
First-Half Foundations: Pulisic Paves the Way
The match, held in Udine, was positioned as a significant test for Milan, especially following recent performances from rivals Juventus and ahead of Inter`s fixture. From the outset, Milan appeared vibrant and determined. Despite being officially suspended, manager Massimiliano Allegri, perched high in the press box, reportedly kept a watchful, albeit vocal, eye on his squad. One could almost hear his frustrated exclamations echoing through the stadium, perhaps a testament to his high standards or merely the cathartic release of a coach unable to be pitch-side.
The opening half was largely a Milan affair, albeit not without its physical challenges. Pulisic, operating with characteristic intensity, found himself on the receiving end of three fouls early on, one requiring medical attention and provoking an animated protest from the Milan bench. Udinese, introducing Ekkelenkamp in midfield and confirming Davis and Bravo up front, struggled to assert their usual rhythm against a well-drilled Milan side.
The deadlock was broken by none other than Christian Pulisic. A beautifully orchestrated move saw a cross from Estupinan, a deflection by Kristensen, and a parry from Udinese goalkeeper Sava. But Pulisic, ever the opportunist, was there to pounce on the rebound, giving Milan a deserved lead. Whether deployed as a winger, attacking midfielder, or secondary striker, Pulisic consistently demonstrated his ability to make a decisive impact. Milan`s defense and midfield, marshaled brilliantly and keeping Udinese`s attempts on Terracciano`s goal to a minimum, ensured another clean sheet remained intact.
Second-Half Blitz: Goals Galore and Unyielding Control
The second half began with an immediate statement of intent from Milan. Just a minute after the restart, the Rossoneri doubled their advantage. Pulisic was again at the heart of the action, driving into the box before being brought down by Karlstrom. While a penalty decision loomed, the referee, exercising good judgment, allowed play to continue under the advantage rule. The loose ball fell perfectly to Fofana, who seized the moment with a right-footed shot that caught Sava by surprise at his near post. Milan was now two goals to the good, leaving Udinese with a mountain to climb.
The quick succession of goals continued, and a mere seven minutes later, Milan inflicted further damage. This time, a precise delivery from Rabiot found Christian Pulisic, who cleverly outwitted Udinese`s number 90 to secure his second goal of the night and Milan`s third. It was a clinical finish that underscored Milan`s dominance and Pulisic`s burgeoning confidence.
Udinese`s manager, Runjaic, responded with tactical substitutions, introducing the likes of Zaniolo, Zanoli, and Rui Modesto. However, these changes proved insufficient to alter the trajectory of a match that had already been decisively shaped by Milan`s superior execution. Milan, too, utilized their bench, bringing on Nkunku, Loftus-Cheek, Ricci, De Winter, and Athekame, maintaining their attacking impetus with further chances created by Nkunku, Saelemaekers, and Estupinan.
Milan`s Message: Solidity and Striking Power
This 3-0 triumph was more than just three points; it was a comprehensive demonstration of AC Milan`s current strength and balance. The team`s third consecutive clean sheet highlights a defensive solidity that is becoming a hallmark under Allegri`s (albeit from afar) guidance. In midfield, the veteran presence of Luka Modric, who, even at 40 years young, commanded the center of the park with a timeless grace, weaving passes and dictating tempo, drew considerable praise. “Modric, God of football,” one fan commented, “with him on the field, everyone is better.” Indeed, his influence was palpable, a testament to enduring class.
The attacking output, spearheaded by Pulisic, suggests a team finding its stride offensively as well. The ability to score three goals against a team that had previously shown resilience speaks volumes. Udinese, on the other hand, will need to reflect on an approach that seemed markedly different from their more spirited performances against other top teams, leading some frustrated fans to quip about their Jekyll and Hyde tendencies, performing as “phenomena” against some and “kittens” against others.
As Allegri finally departed the stands, perhaps with a satisfied, if still critical, nod, AC Milan had firmly established their credentials. This performance was a clear signal to their Serie A rivals: the Rossoneri are not just contenders; they are a formidable force to be reckoned with, blending tactical discipline with individual brilliance to devastating effect.
Gilbert Pendleton