Milan Player Ratings vs. Lazio: Leao Shines in MVP Performance

Milan edged out Lazio in a gripping Serie A encounter on Saturday night, momentarily settling at the pinnacle of the standings. The ever-impressive Rafael Leao clinched the decisive goal at Stadio San Siro, propelling his side ahead of Roma, igniting a fierce title race.

Fresh from their morale-boosting 1-0 triumph over Inter, Milan began the match sluggishly. Lazio seized the initiative, controlling the first half and crafting several clear-cut opportunities. Yet, Mike Maignan was in phenomenal form, continuing to build on his heroic display from the previous week against the Nerazzurri.

Remarkably, Milan concluded the first half without registering a single shot on target. However, the narrative shifted dramatically after the interval. Leao struck just six minutes post-break, capitalizing on Fikayo Tomori’s exquisite low cross to notch his fifth league goal of the season.

Leao’s clinical finish shifted the momentum firmly in Milan’s favor. Despite this advantage, the Rossoneri failed to secure a second goal early on, squandering several inviting chances, notably when Ivan Provedel produced a stunning save to thwart a towering header from Leao midway through the second half.

While Lazio struggled to penetrate Milan’s steadfast defense, they came agonizingly close to a last-minute penalty. Strahinja Pavlovic’s handball in the box prompted a VAR review, but referee Giuseppe Collu opted against the spot-kick, instead awarding Milan a free-kick for a foul in the buildup.

Now, let’s dive into our player ratings.

Milan (3-5-2)

Mike Maignan – 8/10

Though Lazio didn’t challenge him as strongly as Inter had, the French custodian was resolute, making four crucial saves to achieve his second consecutive clean sheet in Serie A. A true cornerstone of the Milan defense.

Strahinja Pavlovic – 8/10

Despite a late scare with a potential penalty, the Serbian defender was near faultless, containing Gustav Isaksen with apparent ease. He even came close to adding his name to the scoresheet with a well-executed volley.

Matteo Gabbia – 7/10

Gabbia’s game was a masterclass in no-nonsense defending, excelling in aerial duels against Boulaye Dia and Taty Castellanos. He demonstrated poise under pressure from Lazio's intensified attacks.

Fikayo Tomori – 8/10

After a shaky start, the former Chelsea man asserted his presence as the match wore on, solidifying his role at the back and providing a pinpoint assist for Leao’s winner.

Davide Bartesaghi – 7/10

Bartesaghi delivered arguably his finest performance in a Milan shirt, consistently delivering dangerous crosses that wreaked havoc in Lazio’s penalty area while nearly assisting Leao again.

Adrien Rabiot – 6/10

The French midfielder, back from a lengthy lay-off, appeared a touch rusty. His decision-making in vital moments wasn't up to par, sometimes taking excessive time to release the ball.

Luka Modric – 7/10

Aside from a couple of rare errors, Modric was the orchestrator of Milan's midfield, mastering the tempo and rhythm of the game with his renowned precision.

Youssouf Fofana – 6/10

Fofana's relentless energy in midfield injected much-needed vigor into Milan’s play, yet he often lacked the composure required in critical moments. One particular miscue in the second half may well become meme material.

Alexis Saelemaekers – 6/10

The adaptable winger had a relatively subdued night but was instrumental in the buildup to Milan's goal and nearly scored a stunning volley.

Christopher Nkunku – 5/10

Nkunku’s performance was largely forgettable, failing to leave a significant impact on the match as Milan’s marquee summer signing struggled to influence play.

Rafael Leao – 8/10

In stark contrast to the out-of-sorts Nkunku, Leao was exceptional. Not only did he net the crucial goal, but he also repeatedly tested Provedel, showcasing his worth as the heartbeat of the Rossoneri.

Substitutions

Ruben Loftus-Cheek – 6/10

Samuele Ricci – 5/10