GdS: Perfect response as Milan head into Liverpool clash with more optimism | OneFootball

AC Milan collected three very important points against the newly-promoted Venezia last night. As highlighted by a report this morning, it was just the confidence boost and response that they needed ahead of Liverpool and Inter.

It was a rather comfortable win for the Rossoneri as they had a 4-0 lead after just 29 minutes, showing a new and effective side of their game. As highlighted by Gazzetta dello Sport (see photo below), the opening goal within the first two minutes was the perfect start imaginable.

Theo Hernandez and Rafael Leao, who have both been heavily criticised lately, combined for the goal and showcased all of their class. Granted that the goalkeeper could have done a better job, the San Siro got to roar early.

The perfect response

With two points in three games, an unbalanced team without an identity and fan patience running thin, Milan came up with the perfect response. ‘Enough excuses, last call’, the fan banners read before the game last night and the Rossoneri got on the train after all.

Of course, the goal fest against Venezia hasn’t solved everything but the many goals scored and the support of the fans made for a perfect evening. Especially as Milan now must climb two very high mountains, first taking on Liverpool in the Champions League and then Inter in the derby.

The clash against the Reds is scheduled for Tuesday, while the Derby della Madonnina will take place Sunday, so heading into the clash with some confidence could be life-saving. Without yesterday’s win, it would have been a very tough situation.

The midfield is growing

The midfield hadn’t exactly been showered with praise in the first three games and therefore, it was nice to see that Fonseca’s changes worked. Ruben Loftus-Cheek got to play a slightly deeper role, increasing the physicality in that part of the pitch, and Tijjani Reijnders was closer to the goal.

It was yet another good display from the Dutchman, as discussed in our player ratings, and Christian Pulisic was also a bright spot. As the newspaper continues, this new-look midfield might be enough to avoid being overly exposed against Liverpool and Inter next week.

A good starting point

While the defence had several good moments last night, with Matteo Gabbia bringing concentration and concreteness, Venezia simply cannot be compared with Liverpool. Emerson Royal, for example, will be up against Luis Diaz instead of Francesco Zampano.

Growth is still needed, both individually and collectively, but the Venezia performance was at least a very good starting point. It was the first time they scored four goals in the first 30 minutes since 1958, and it was also the first clean sheet since April 6.

In short, Milan will head into the upcoming clashes with more optimism and awareness, not to mention that a weight has been lifted off their shoulders.