Notes On A 2-0 Win At Verona With Goals From Unexpected Sources

A decimated squad missing Ibra, Mandzukic, Calhanoglu and Rebic plus Theo Hernandez, Hauge and Tonali faced a solid unbeaten in four Verona. Romagnoli made the starting 11 but it was Kjaer who sat on the bench with Tomori partnering the captain. The lineup was almost makeshift with both Castillejo and Saelemaekers.
The early minutes were somewhat quiet and the best chance fell to Verona when a header back to him looped over him causing a heart stopping moment. Donnarumma looked to limping right after.
Moments later a good Calabria cross was met with Leao just out the 6 yard box and he headed hard just over.
Small fouls and whistles dominated the subsequent minutes.
A surprise followed. Krunic was brought down at the top left of the box. The two players – Castillejo and Krunic – lining up to take the free kick were not the inspiring. Krunic took it and shot well and beat Marco Silvestri in the top far corner.
The first half finished with little more of note.
Milan came out much more determined early in the second and soon doubled the lead. Good movement and passing play down the left wing had Saelemaekers leaving it for Dalot who placed a shot into the near top corner and had many surprised.
Verona made wholesale changes that included withdrawing Antonin Barak and Mattia Zaccagni. The desired effect did not arrive, at least not immediately.
As the game dragged on without much drama Hauge came on for Castillejo.
Verona got a few barely half chances but Milan defended well and made timely clearances and interceptions. Krunic, Meite, Kessie, Calabria, Romagnoli and Tomori all deserving credit.
Goals from unexpected sources provided a solid 2-0 win, one many didn’t expect.