Milan secures another hard-fought victory against Cremonese.

On Sunday, AC Milan showcased their determination by securing a hard-fought 2-0 victory against Cremonese at the Stadio Giovanni Zini, a result that reaffirms the Rossoneri’s ambition in Serie A. The standout of the match was Strahinja Pavlovic, whose decisive goal in the 90th minute sealed the team’s fate. With this victory, Milan closes in on the league leadership, now just 10 points behind Inter, as they prepare for the much-anticipated Derby della Madonnina next weekend.

Goals from Pavlovic and Rafael Leão, the latter scored in the fourth minute of stoppage time, were crucial in securing the three points. The match was characterized by tactical balance, but effectiveness in decisive moments made the difference. Below, we present the player ratings, reflecting each athlete’s performance on the pitch.

**Cremonese:**

– **Audero 7**: The goalkeeper had a remarkable performance, with several crucial saves that prevented Milan from scoring in the first half. With six standout interventions, Audero was undoubtedly the best player on his team.

– **Folino 6.5**: Showed solid defensive skills but struggled to stop Milan’s quick attacks.

– **Luperto 6**: Acceptable performance, although he suffered from the constant pressure from Milan’s attackers.

– **Bianchetti 6 (Terracciano 6)**: A discreet game, without major errors, but also lacking in standout moments.

– **Zerbin 5.5 (Barbieri 6)**: Failed to be a significant threat in attack.

– **Thorsby 6.5**: One of the most active in midfield, contributing defensively and creating plays.

– **Vandeputte 6 (Grassi n/a)**: Little impact on the match.

– **Maleh 6**: Tried to control the midfield but was frequently outpaced.

– **Pezzella 6**: Defensively competent, but without any highlights in attack.

– **Bonazzoli 6**: Attempted to pressure Milan’s defense, but without success.

– **Vardy 5 (Djuric 6)**: Did not have a significant impact on the game.

**Best player of Cremonese**: Emil Audero, with a breathtaking performance, was the savior of his team, keeping hope alive until the final moments.

**Coach**: Davide Nicola 6.5 – Despite the defeat, the coach saw his team put in an encouraging performance against a strong opponent. However, the manner in which the team lost, especially at crucial moments, will be a source of frustration.

**Milan:**

– **Maignan 6**: A calm game, without major difficulties, but he met expectations.

– **Tomori 6 (Athekame 6)**: Defended securely, but was not tested frequently.

– **De Winter 6.5**: Showed solid defensive skills and contributed to the build-up play.

– **Pavlovic 7**: An exemplary defensive performance and the winning goal. Successfully completed all three tackles, confirming his status as the star of the match.

– **Saelemaekers 5.5 (Fullkrug 6)**: A bit subdued, he failed to make a difference.

– **Fofana 6.5 (Ricci 6)**: Good presence in midfield, aiding in transitions.

– **Modric 6.5**: A solid display, controlling the pace of the game.

– **Rabiot 6**: Contributed defensively and offensively, but without standout moments.

– **Bartesaghi 6**: A secure performance, but without shining.

– **Leão 6**: Managed to score, but struggled to be decisive for most of the game.

– **Pulisic 5 (Nkunku 6.5)**: A game below expectations, but Nkunku brought energy upon entering.

**Best player of Milan**: Strahinja Pavlovic, with a solid defensive display and a crucial goal that secures him a prominent place in the season’s history.

**Coach**: Massimiliano Allegri 6 – Milan continues to fight for results, and this victory represents an important step in the quest for a place in the [Champions League](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/tottenham-interessado-em-contratar-antigo-treinador-do-eintracht-frankfurt/). Although the style of play is not always attractive, the effectiveness in results is what matters.

With this victory, Milan not only solidifies its position in the standings but also prepares for a decisive clash against Inter, where the pressure and expectations will be at their peak. What follows in the next round promises to be electrifying!