Saturday, March 29, 2014

Milan-Chievo Review: Smiles All Around

A good vibe will be swirling all around Milanello, at least for now. With back to back wins and clean sheets, Milan put in an excellent performance at the San Siro against Chievo Verona. Just a couple weeks ago, Clarence Seedorf's job was up for question, all the pressure was on him and the team to start performing. That's exactly what they've done. There's no better way to respond to critics than to win. It was bound to be a special day for Kaka's 300th match in a Milan kit.

Right from the blow of the whistle, Milan were in attack mode, despite Chievo putting on some early pressure while Milan had the ball. The first goal didn't take long. In the 4th minute, Adil Rami was on the right wing and sent in a perfect cross for Mario Balotelli who smashed in a spectacular volley from close range to put Milan up 1-0. It was the perfect way to start the match as it got the crowd roaring and brought a ton of energy to the team.

Keisuke Honda who has been very much struggling for his new team, finally put in a solid performance. He was making runs down the right-hand side while also creating for his teammates. At the edge of the box, Honda lifted the ball up and over the defense and put it on a silver platter for Kaka to bring down and slot it home for an easy finish to make it 2-0. It was a fantastic assist and hopefully one of many more in the future for the playmaker.

It was a dominate showing from I Rossoneri, from start to finish. They controlled the tempo, had majority of possession and didn't waste many chances. To cap off an amazing performance, the legend himself, Riccardo Kaka, scored an absolute golazo from the left corner of the box, curling the ball just inside the post to get his brace in what will be a very remember-able match for him.

It's very clear that the players have Seedorf's back, considering the type of scrutiny and pressure he was receiving from the media and management. The past to two matches, against Fiorentina and Chievo, Milan and especially Mario Balotelli have been playing with much more intensity and showing a stronger will to win. Balotelli was very involved throughout the entire match and set up two clear cut chances for Honda and Emanuelson, both of which were wasted by poor shots. Milan look to be getting back on track and Seedorf's ideas seem to be getting through to the squad.

Man of the Match: Ricky Kaka
Honorable mentions: Mario Balotelli, Keisuke Honda, Adel Taarabt

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