August 1, 2024 — In a closely contested preseason match on their 2024 U.S. Tour, AC Milan edged out Real Madrid with a 1-0 victory. The game, held at a packed stadium in Chicago, showcased both teams’ preparations for the upcoming season. Here’s how the players fared in this thrilling encounter:
Contents
Real Madrid
Starting XI
Torriani (7): He wasn’t really tested in the first half, apart from a close-range shot which he saved nicely (but it was offside anyway). Calm again with the ball at his feet, which was nice to see, and he made a fantastic stop at the end of the second half to deny Real Madrid a goal.
Calabria (6): Decent first half with some defensive recoveries and good runs forward. This continued in the second half and overall, it was a positive display from the captain. Still, he struggles a bit when the opponent turns on the pace.
Thiaw (6): Strong in the duels and he wasn’t afraid to press high either. He had a header that hit the bar in the second half and while that was unlucky, he was also so close to the goal that one can demand more from him there.
Tomori (6.5): Much better than the Man City game, that’s for sure, with aggressive defending and often good positioning too. His high pressing also resulted in the goal, forcing his opponent into a fatal mistake.
Terracciano (5.5): He struggled a bit in the first half, above all because it was end-to-end stuff initially, but he adapted a bit and had a couple of good defensive actions. Still, he can do a lot better in both phases of the game.
Bennacer (6.5): Calm and collected, almost always available and with good short-range passing. He also should have had an assist with a great free-kick delivery for Thiaw. The long-range passing could have been better, but his importance in the build-up phase is certainly undeniable.
Loftus-Cheek (6): The Englishman had some nice turns on the ball, allowing Milan to transition quickly, but he faded a bit and almost struggled to have an impact when the Rossoneri had the ball. Perhaps a result of being further down the pitch, but his quality is something we want more of.
Chukwueze (7.5 – MOTM): He was gifted Milan’s best chance in the first half but failed to beat Courtois. It was a good save, yes, but the feeling is that he should have scored. However, he certainly got revenge as he gave Milan the lead with a composed strike in the second half. Furthermore, he was very lively and smart throughout the game when he had possession in the final third, setting up teammates on several occasions. He arguably should have had an assist for Pulisic.
Liberali (7): Inspiring display yet again as he often craved possession and made himself available, showcasing brilliant technique. We saw that with the assist for Chukwueze, which was perfect, but he did miss a chance to double the lead with his right foot.
Saelemaekers (6): Compared to the first two friendlies, a lot quieter although it should be said that Milan seemingly preferred to go down the right. He had one shot that was blocked in the first half, but in the second he was at least able to get on the ball more and did well.
Nasti (5.5): If Chukwueze had the best chance of the first half, the young striker had the second-best chance but the left-footed effort was straight at the keeper. Unfortunately, he struggled in possession too as he was too sluggish.
Substitutions:
Andriy Lunin—6: Opened a huge space at the near post on Chukwueze goal. Distribution with his feet was good but often takes several moments before finally making the pass.
Joan Martinez—7: Imposing figure for a 16-year-old. Assured in possession, zipping his passes into teammates. Had to try and manage a number of 4 v 2 transition attacks from AC Milan — a baptism of fire.
Raul Asencio—5: Over eager to win the ball back defensively and can take the backline out of shape leaving gaps behind him.
Nico Paz—5.5: AC Milan underestimated the Argentine every time he got on the ball and more often than not ended up fouling him. Should be noted, his delivery and shots from set-pieces were poor. Faded out of the game as the half went on and failed to leave a material impact.
Cesar Palacios—N/A: Took a knock early in the second half and was replaced by Alvaro Rodriguez 5 minutes into his cameo.
Juanma Latasa—2: Zero contribution to the match.
Alvaro—3: Played as dual striker with Latasa and neither big man brought anything to the game. Had a late chance in the game after being played through by Brahim and missed his opportunity. Created an opportunity in the final minutes of the match after winning the ball back defensively high up the pitch.
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