The Archive

April 2006

AC Milan 2:0 Livorno - match report
30.4 || scharatz

Source: Football Italia

Inzaghi 28, 66 (M)
Stadio San Siro


Milan's title hopes are hanging by a thread, as the gap remains three points with two games to go after Pippo Inzaghi's brace saw off Livorno.

The title was thrown back into the ring last week when Juve's lead was sliced down to just three points, but the Rossoneri were still smarting from their midweek Champions League exit to Barcelona. Alessandro Nesta, Massimo Ambrosini, Kaka and the suspended Clarence Seedorf were out, while Livorno got back on track last week after seven defeats on the trot.

Pippo Inzaghi had the first chance with a diving header, then there were penalty appeals for a handling offence inside the area as a free kick struck the defensive wall.

Inzaghi really should've put Milan ahead after 15 minutes, as he somehow failed to redirect a Serginho low cross from five yards with the goalkeeper well beaten, but he only got a glancing touch to the inviting ball.

It was all the Rossoneri and Shevchenko nodded Manuel Rui Costa's cross past the post.

Marco Amelia performed a great save to deny Shevchenko soon after, but it was Inzaghi who finally made all this pressure count on 28 minutes.

He was at full stretch to side-foot in a Marek Jankulovski cross from the left on the volley.

Amelia stuck up a strong hand to turn Shevchenko's chest and volley over the bar from point-blank range.

Livorno's first shot on goal came after 35 minutes, as a cross was not dealt with effectively and Diego De Ascentis drilled his angled drive just wide of the far post.

Amelia again got a fingertip to Inzaghi's close-range effort, then Jaap Stam went off with a shoulder problem after he accidentally clattered into teammate Dida in a bid to close down Lucarelli.

After the restart, Inzaghi sprung the offside trap to chest down Rui Costa's long pass, but Amelia rushed out and turned it on to the side-netting.

Milan were wasting literally dozens of chances at San Siro and Shevchenko slammed the crossbar with Amelia beaten from another inspired Rui Costa assist.

Inzaghi headed an Andrea Pirlo free kick over the bar, while Dida parried a Raffaele Palladino counter-attack, but SuperPippo completed his brace on 66 minutes.

Shevchenko's cross came in from the right and Inzaghi volleyed in from six yards with the inside of his right foot.

Milan kept on pushing with Amelia flying around his net to keep out Marek Jankulovski's rocket and an Alberto Gilardino attempt.

Lucarelli almost got Livorno back into it eight minutes from time with a low drive that was fingertipped round the near post by Dida.



Milan: Dida; Cafu, Stam (Costacurta 41), Kaladze, Serginho; Gattuso, Pirlo, Jankulovski; Rui Costa; Shevchenko (Gilardino 66), Inzaghi (Amoroso 79)

Livorno: Amelia; Fanucci, Grandoni (Cesar Prates 68), Galante; Balleri, Morrone, Passoni, De Ascentis (Ruotolo 79), Pfertzel; Palladino (Paulinho 69), C Lucarelli

Ref: Racalbuto

Ancelotti: Now for the Scudetto
30.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Carlo Ancelotti admits he is still smarting from the Champions League, but that Milan will use that to fire them on in a remarkable Scudetto race.

“Of course we miss Europe, because we were a whisker away from the Final. We deserved to play in Paris every bit as much as Barcelona, but only one could go through. With Arsenal and Barca, the two Finalists will be teams who relied on a defensive approach to qualify,” he said after the 1-0 aggregate semi-final defeat.

“We have to get over it and concentrate on Serie A, where our objective is to get nine points from the last three games to keep our Scudetto hopes alive until the very end. The pressure is on Juventus now, as their lead has been reduced to the bare minimum.”

Ancelotti believes that the Rossoneri’s European exit, complete with controversially disallowed goal at the Nou Camp, could spur them on to greater things this season.

“The fans appreciated our performance regardless of the disappointment of the result. The fact this team gave its all means we can build on that and make important strides over the next few games.”

If they are to avoid ending a second consecutive season empty-handed, then Milan must complete an extraordinary comeback to take the title off a Juventus side that had seemed to be in the clear only a few weeks ago.

“Naturally, it would’ve been better if there were still 10 or 11 rounds left rather than three, but there is time to eat up these three points and all we can do is keep winning and hope for the best. Anything can happen in football and the only verdicts from this season already decided are the relegations for Treviso and Lecce. All the rest is up for grabs.”

Milan welcome a revitalised Livorno on Sunday afternoon, while leaders Juventus visit relegation strugglers Siena.

The Coach ended his Press conference by denying a revolution was needed to bring flesh blood into this ageing squad.

“I don’t understand why there is always talk of the veterans and not about the basic spine of the side, such as Alessandro Nesta, Kakha Kaladze, Kaka, Andriy Shevchenko and Alberto Gilardino, who can go on playing for many years. A few players like Jaap Stam will leave and be replaced, but that’s the only reason to make changes.”

Merk bites back at Milan
30.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Referee Markus Merk has broken his silence on the contentious Barcelona tie and insisted he was right to disallow Andriy Shevchenko’s goal.

“When the ball was in the air, Shevchenko’s foul was very clear,” he told German newspaper ‘Die Welt.’

“In fact, the Ukrainian apologised to Carles Puyol immediately afterwards. Nobody complained on the pitch at the time.”

The Rossoneri were furious after the Champions League semi-final when Shevchenko’s goal, which would’ve taken the tie to extra time, was disallowed for an alleged push that is not clear on any of the available footage.

“It was a goal, I didn’t push Puyol,” insisted Sheva, who looked anything but apologetic after the header was chalked off at the Nou Camp.

Vice-President Adriano Galliani was particularly angry and noted: “Many things about Merk’s performance annoyed me: the rather limited three minutes of stoppages, which he blew the final whistle on 20 seconds early, and the disallowed goal. With this we could’ve gone to extra time and it’s a shame the tie was decided by a refereeing error.”

There are even reports that UEFA came out in favour of Milan in this situation, effectively banning Merk from officiating a game with Italy or Shevchenko’s Ukraine in the 2006 World Cup.

Cafu sees scared Juve
29.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan are just three points adrift of Serie A leaders Juventus and Marcos Cafu believes the Scudetto is there for the taking.

“We have three games left to play and so do Juve, so in that time anything can happen,” said the Brazilian.

The gap had been as high as 10 points just a few weeks ago, but the Bianconeri’s run of five games without a win – seven in all competitions – has seen that lead crumble away.

“The alleged tension within the Juventus squad can influence the way they play the remaining ties, especially as the fact Milan are so close only increases that anxiety. We must try to win all of our matches and see what happens elsewhere.”

The Rossoneri also risk a psychological setback after their controversial Champions League exit to Barcelona, in which Andriy Shevchenko had a perfectly good goal disallowed.

“The atmosphere within the club is positive. It’s all we can do, as on Sunday we already have another tough test to think about. We played well at the Nou Camp and tried to win until the final whistle, so it’s a real shame we didn’t manage it, but now we must focus on the Scudetto.”

Milan’s title run-in sees two home games against Livorno and Roma, with a trip to Parma sandwiched in-between.

Juventus travel to Siena and Reggina, welcoming Palermo to the Stadio Delle Alpi next weekend.

Maldini undergoes knee surgery
29.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Paolo Maldini’s season is probably over after the Milan captain underwent knee surgery in Antwerp today.

The defender went under the knife for keyhole surgery on his right knee, an operation performed by specialist Professor Marc Maertens.

The club released a statement with minimal details, stating only that the time it would take for a full recovery would be evaluated over the next few days.

It has been a tough season for Maldini, who has managed just 14 Serie A appearances and nine Champions League games.

His last match was on April 18, when he came on as a substitute during the first leg of the Euro semi-final with Barcelona.

Maldini was out for almost four months with a knee problem and only made his comeback during the 3-1 win over Fiorentina on March 25.

Despite this series of setbacks, the player who turns 38 in June insisted last week that he would not retire early, as his contract does not expire until 2007.

Galliani denies Buffon link
28.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan chief Adriano Galliani has spoken out in favour of under-fire goalkeeper Nelson Dida and denied that he is planning a summer move for Gigi Buffon.

Dida’s reputation has taken a battering this season after a number of uncharacteristic errors, prompting rumours that the Brazilian international may be on his way out at the San Siro.

However, Galliani remains adamant that he will be sticking with his current custodian. “Buffon? We’ll carry on with Dida,” he stated,

“He put in a superb performance against Barcelona on Wednesday. I wish the newspapers were as keen to talk about his brilliance as they were about his less good moments.”

Speculation had been rife after French newspaper L’Equipe claimed that Buffon was to arrive from Juventus in exchange for Christian Abbiati and a cash sum.

The flames were fanned by reports that Buffon’s girlfriend Alena Seredova was keen to live in Milan. However, the Azzurri ‘keeper has remained tight-lipped thus far.

Amelia refutes Milan talk
28.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Livorno goalkeeper Marco Amelia has played down talk of a move to Milan, but admits that there is pressure on him to impress when his side face the Rossoneri this weekend.

With intense speculation that Dida may be leaving the San Siro in the summer, many have touted the highly-rated 24-year-old as a possible replacement.

However, Amelia is under contract at the Stadio Armando Picchi until 2009 and appears happy to stay there for now.

“I’d be delighted if one of the big three made an approach for me,” admitted the custodian. “But I’d always rather play for a team where I can show my ability rather than be second choice.”

It seems that Amelia is most concerned with impressing Marcelo Lippi and furthering his bid to travel to Germany as the Azzurri’s third goalkeeper.

“I think I’ve had an excellent season so far but it’s up to Lippi,” he told Radio Radio, “I know that Buffon and Peruzzi are ahead of me as they are two of the best in the world, but I’m playing for third.”

Livorno’s chances of securing a UEFA Cup place seem to be fading after a disastrous run of seven consecutive defeats. Whether Amelia is willing to miss out on European football remains to be seen.

Earlier in the season he called for Roma to make an offer for him and a move to the Stadio Olimpico – where Amelia started his career – remains a distinct possibility.

Sheva: There was no push
28.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Andriy Shevchenko has expressed his disappointment at referee Markus Merk’s decision to disallow his goal against Barcelona last night.

Milan bowed out of the Champions League after a 1-0 aggregate defeat, but felt aggrieved that Shevchenko’s would-be equaliser was ruled out for a push on Carles Puyol.

“It was a goal, I didn’t push Puyol,” declared the 29-year-old Ukrainian. “It was an inexplicable decision but we’re leaving the competition with our heads held high. That’s football and you have to get on with it.”

Shevchenko’s strike partner Pippo Inzaghi couldn’t mask his bitterness at his team’s elimination.

“What went wrong yesterday? The referee did,” he exclaimed to gathered journalists as he arrived for training this afternoon.

However, Puyol remains convinced that Shevchenko knocked him off his feet before running on to score.

“Shevchenko pushed me when he first started his run, and that put me off balance,” he maintained. “It’s not even a disallowed goal because the referee had already blown.”

Milan’s thoughts now turn to the Scudetto. They have closed to within three points of Juventus, but cannot afford any slip-ups.

“Now we can concentrate on catching Juventus,” admitted Shevchenko. “We must make sure we get nine points from these three games.”

Eto'o admires Rossoneri
28.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Samuel Eto’o, Ludovic Giuly and Giovanni Van Bronckhorst were all impressed with the way Milan put Barcelona under pressure.

“I think we played quite well in the first half and created a few chances, but we knew Milan were a great side and when they attacked we were under pressure,” said the Cameroon hitman.

The Spaniards held out for a 0-0 draw that qualified them 1-0 on aggregate for the Champions League Final, although Andriy Shevchenko had a goal controversially disallowed.

“We had to make sacrifices to get this result and in a band not everyone can play the guitar, someone needs to keep the beat with the drum.”

Eto’o had Barca’s best chance of the second leg, bringing a great save out of Dida from point-blank range.

“Dida did very well to rush out and cover the ball. I was trying to lob him, but he saw that coming and corrected his position to block the shot.”

Giuly scored the decisive goal in the first leg at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza and also stood by their more defensive approach to defend that slender lead.

“Milan are a great team, so it was always going to be difficult and we made the most of that precious result in the first leg,” said the former Monaco star.

Van Bronckhorst was one of the tactical keys to this success, changing position to help limit the Rossoneri’s creative centres.

“I think I had to go towards Gennaro Gattuso early on, which allowed Kaka and Shevchenko to get round me. In the second half I focused on Clarence Seedorf and it went much better, so we needed to make adjustments during the game.”

The Final in Paris will be a special game for Van Bronckhorst, who will face his former Arsenal teammates.

“Both teams reached the Final and therefore deserve to be there. I think it’ll be an attractive Final to watch, as we play in fairly similar styles,” said the Dutchman.

Milan try to lure Buffon
27.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Juventus may be ready to let Gigi Buffon join Milan in a part exchange deal involving Christian Abbiati, according to reports in France.

Speculation was fuelled by unexpected comments from Arsenal assistant Coach Pat Rice following his side’s triumph over Villarreal on Tuesday evening.

“Surely you all know that Buffon’s going to Milan in exchange for Abbiati and money?” Rice is quoted as saying in L’Equipe.

While Milan are keen to find a replacement for Dida, who has struggled to find consistency this term, persuading the Old Lady to part with the Azzurri ‘keeper may prove a harder task.

The Bianconeri have valued Buffon at £35m and would demand a significant cash figure in addition to the signature of Abbiati.

Abbiati has spent the season on loan at Juventus but has been relegated to the bench since Buffon returned from injury.

The 28-year-old has made 110 appearances for the Rossoneri since arriving from Monza in 1998, but had only started eight times in three seasons prior to this campaign.

It is thought that the Bianconeri will sign Sampdoria’s 36-year-old Francesco Antonioli to cover the position until 2008 when Marco Amelia’s contract with Livorno expires.

Meanwhile, the Old Lady are also rumoured to be plotting a £30m summer spending frenzy, with targets including Palermo’s Andrea Barzagli, William Gallas of Chelsea, Real Betis winger Joaquin and Cagliari’s 20-goal Honduran David Suazo.

Rui Costa hints at retirement
27.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Manuel Rui Costa has been linked with Fiorentina and Benfica, but the Milan man has hinted he could hang up his boots instead.

“I have been considering my future for some time. I have another three Serie A games to play with Milan and will concentrate on them before making a decision,” said the 34-year-old.

“Zinedine Zidane quitting does make you think, as I agree that a player who can no longer live up to his standards should bow out gracefully. It’s a time that arrives for everyone.”

The Portuguese international was part of the Golden Generation along with Luis Figo, but has been pushed out of the Rossoneri squad by Kaka, making just 22 Serie A appearances this season.

“Zidane is one of the greatest talents football has seen over the last 10 years, but he has decided to go at the right time, as if he doesn’t enjoy himself anymore and isn’t able to maintain those standards people have come to expect, it’s the best course of action.”

Rui Costa was a second half substitute at the Nou Camp last night, but the 0-0 draw wasn’t enough to knock Barcelona out of the Champions League semi-finals.

“The goal in the first leg weighed on us and so did the disallowed goal here. I think Milan proved over the 180 minutes that they were a great side.”

Like his teammates and Coach Carlo Ancelotti, Rui Costa thinks the game might’ve gone differently if Andriy Shevchenko’s goal hadn’t been controversially disallowed.

“If the goal had stood, I’m sure the very least we would’ve done was reach extra time. Although it shouldn’t have been ruled out, I prefer not to think about these things, as they only make you bitter.”

Seedorf: Milan remain the best
27.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Clarence Seedorf believes Milan leave the Champions League with their heads held high and that this was the ‘real’ Final.

“We lost this game in the first leg, unfortunately. It was a very balanced tie overall and, I believe, if you look at the 180 minutes then Milan deserved to go through,” said the Dutchman after going out 1-0 on aggregate to Barcelona.

“It was always going to be difficult, as these are the two best sides in Europe right now and the ones who play the best football. I’d prefer not to talk about the disallowed goal, as there’s no point to it now.”

The Final in Paris will be between Barcelona and Arsenal, but Seedorf thinks the best side has already gone out.

“We certainly showed Barcelona that Milan were the better team in the first leg up until the goal and again here at the Nou Camp. The Rossoneri have consistently been among the best in Europe for four years. I think everyone knows this should’ve been the Final, although Arsenal have never played at this stage, so it’s a special event for them.”

Despite the 0-0 draw at the Nou Camp, the Rossoneri bow out thanks to Ludovic Giuly’s strike in the first leg.

“It’s a shame, as we gave our all and really couldn’t have done any more than this. It was a very sporting game where everyone was focused only on the football and Barcelona understood they were facing a great team.”

All their attention now turns to Serie A, as Milan are within three points of leaders Juventus and there are just three games left to go.

“At least we have second place to consolidate and can hope that Juventus continue to make mistakes to let us back into the title race.”

Galliani defends Italian honour
27.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani was furious with referee Markus Merk, but insists this season has not been a defeat for Italian football.

“Three minutes of stoppages was fairly short to begin with, let alone blowing the final whistle 20 seconds early, while the goal should not have been disallowed,” he said after the 0-0 draw at the Nou Camp saw Barcelona qualify 1-0 on aggregate.

“The two legs were very balanced and it’s a great shame to go out because of a refereeing error, as with that goal the game would’ve changed and I think we could’ve progressed.”

Galliani was crestfallen after this Champions League semi-final exit, although the Rossoneri have been easily the most successful side in recent years with the 2003 victory and incredible loss on penalties two campaigns later.

“Last season we again had a perfectly good goal disallowed against Liverpool in the Final, which would’ve made it 4-0. We’ll be back next year and keep trying to win the trophy again, as we were by no means inferior to Barcelona.”

The Rossoneri transfer guru was at least happy with the style of play seen over the two legs where, despite there only being one goal, there were several scoring opportunities.

“Barca and Milan play the best football in Europe and I don’t think anyone can doubt that now. Unfortunately, that single incident at San Siro cost us dearly.”

Galliani is also the head of the Lega Calcio, which represents Italian football, but insists the lack of peninsula representatives in the Champions League Final is not a death knell.

“I believe that Inter and Juventus had the opportunities to progress. Italian football got three of the final eight teams in the Champions League, so this is hardly the death of our clubs.”

Rijkaard afraid of Milan
27.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Former Rossoneri man Frank Rijkaard admits Barcelona had to sit back and defend in order to get past a ‘fantastic’ Milan side.

“I honestly believe this approach was necessary, as we were facing a fantastic team like Milan. It is a great result for us to go through,” said the Coach.

Ludovic Giuly’s strike in the first leg proved the only goal in the 1-0 aggregate victory, sending Barca through to the Final against Arsenal in Paris, but the Spaniards surprised with their almost negative approach.

“We are used to playing Edmilson as a defensive midfielder. It seemed logical that he often had to fold back even more on Kaka, but he also pushed forward when needed, so it wasn’t a pure man-marking job. The important thing was to defend well, as with these strikers you don’t need to work too hard on the attacking aspect.”

Rijkaard was Carlo Ancelotti’s teammate at Milan in the late 1980s and admits he has picked up some elements from Arrigo Sacchi’s teachings.

“Clearly I always prefer to play attacking football, but we mustn’t forget that there are moments against a great side when you have to slow the tempo and try to take back control.”

Ancelotti: We deserved the Final
27.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Carlo Ancelotti has slammed referee Markus Merk for disallowing a good goal and claims Milan deserved to qualify ahead of Barcelona.

“That was a perfectly good goal and nobody can understand how such an experienced referee could whistle for a foul there,” said the Coach after Andriy Shevchenko’s header was ruled out.

“Carles Puyol lost his balance when running backwards and that’s all there was to it. In such an important game, errors like this weigh heavily on our shoulders and we certainly feel penalised.”

Both meetings in the semi-final were evenly balanced and the Ludovic Giuly strike in the first leg proved the only difference between them.

“We were on a par with Barca in both legs and, just as at San Siro, tried in every possible way to get a goal. We’re disappointed and especially after seeing that goal disallowed, ruling us out of a Final I think we would’ve deserved,” added Ancelotti.

“We leave this competition with our heads held high. Although we struggled a little at the start of the tournament, the squad stepped up a gear and was unlucky to go out in the semi-finals. The team did everything it possibly could today and created chances, but our regrets are only wrapped up in failing to score at the end of it.”

Ancelotti had to make a few changes for the second leg, as Kaka and Shevchenko seemed to go deeper, often leaving Pippo Inzaghi isolated upfront, while Barcelona were surprisingly negative considering their reputation for champagne football.

“I didn’t give the strikers any particular orders. The difference was that Kaka had to move around to avoid getting stuck in Edmilson’s man-marking. Barcelona focused only on the counter-attack in the second half and didn’t really try to push forward at all. The fact that Frank Rijkaard was forced to sit back is a compliment to our performance, as we came to the Nou Camp and put Barcelona under pressure.”

Milan are still in the running for the Scudetto after cutting the gap from Juventus to just three points, but Ancelotti insists there will be no revolution in the summer.

“This is a competitive side and it will be the same next term. A few players will leave and a few adjustments have already been organised, but nothing more is needed. Although we have some 40-year-old players, the nucleus of the team is still young.”

Barcelona 0:0 AC Milan - match report
27.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Despite a creditable draw at the Nou Camp and a controversially disallowed goal, Milan bow out of the Champions League 1-0 on aggregate to Barcelona.

The Rossoneri knew they had a mammoth task ahead of them if they were to join Arsenal in the Final, as they had lost the first leg 1-0 at home. Filippo Inzaghi missed that tie due to tonsillitis, but was back upfront at the Nou Camp.

Kaka and Andriy Shevchenko played despite minor injury worries, but Alessandro Nesta wasn't even fit enough for the bench after a thigh strain, so 40-year-old Alessandro Costacurta started in central defence. Barca welcomed Deco back from suspension.

Milan had the first shot after 40 seconds with Kaka's effort whistling just wide of the far post. Barcelona also threatened soon after with Dida rushing out to close down Samuel Eto'o's powerful strike from point-blank range.

Inzaghi was halted for an extremely tight offside decision, but there was panic in the Milan area on 16 minutes. Kakha Kaladze foolishly lost the ball and Dida managed to get a touch on to Eto'o's finish, allowing Costacurta to clear off the line.

Rafael Marquez's intervention stopped a promising Clarence Seedorf pass reaching Inzaghi clear on goal. Soon after, Inzaghi sprung the offside trap on Gennaro Gattuso's through ball, only for his first touch to let him down.

Ronaldinho's ambitious effort from 20 metres was over the bar, then Andriy Shevchenko struck the side-netting from a tight angle when he might've done better to pass it into the centre.

Another Eto'o attempt from close range was charged down by a sea of defensive bodies, while Juliano Belletti drilled well wide with his right foot.

Inzaghi just failed to get his head on the end of a Jaap Stam cross and nodded another wide when he was off balance, while a weak Giuly shot was comfortably held by Dida.

Seedorf was off target from 35 metres with a very hopeful attempt, but there was worry when Stam tripped on the ball and set off a Barca attack which Deco fired over the bar.

A fine Kaka move was closed down by an acrobatic Carles Puyol intervention with Shevchenko and Inzaghi ready in the centre.

The Milan defence lost the ball again and Costacurta earned a booking for his desperate tackle on Eto'o.

The second half started well for the Italians, though Shevchenko's diving header on a Seedorf cross was into the grateful arms of Victor Valdes.

Ronaldinho's free kick was comfortably smothered by Dida, then Milan were very lucky that Belletti just failed to get on the end of Giuly's low pass in the six-yard box, as the slightest contact probably would've resulted in a goal.

A prolonged period of Rossoneri pressure ended with a wayward Inzaghi header and another Ronaldinho free kick from distance failed to trouble Dida.

Giuly went close for the Blaugrana with a volley from Ronaldinho's delightful chipped pass that was wide of the near post.

Inzaghi's shot was off target under pressure from Marquez and Marcos Cafu replaced Costacurta, moving Stam to central defence for the final half-hour push. In response, Frank Rijkaard switched Ronaldinho to the centre and Eto'o out wide on the left.

Serginho needed a perfectly timed tackle to stop Giuly running clear on goal from Ronaldinho's pass.

On 66 minutes Valdes only flapped a Serginho cross into the path of Cafu, who couldn't keep his header down in front of an open goal.

Henrik Larsson replaced Giuly and Milan threw on Manuel Rui Costa for Gattuso in an all-attack formation.

Milan hit the back of the net after 68 minutes with Shevchenko's header, but it was controversially disallowed for an alleged push on Puyol. Replays do not show particularly clear contact and the defender appeared to slip.

Seedorf was caught napping, but made up for it by winning the ball back off Ronaldinho on the edge of the box. Ancelotti's men were dominating possession in the second half, with Barca focusing on the counter-attack.

Barcelona could've put the tie beyond doubt on 74 minutes with Eto'o's cross reaching a Larsson diving header, but Dida performed a stunning instinct save from point-blank range to keep the Rossoneri in it.

Deco fired straight at Dida after Ronaldinho broke forward, then Inzaghi again was a couple of inches off a promising cross into the centre. SuperPippo seemed tired and still not 100 per cent fit after his debilitating bout of tonsillitis, so Alberto Gilardino came on for the final 10 minutes.

The ex-Parma man couldn't make the most of a Rui Costa cross and in the final minute Serginho lashed wide of the near post with a half-volley.

Barcelona: Valdes; Belletti, Marquez, Puyol, Van Bronckhorst; Iniesta, Edmilson, Deco; Giuly (Larsson 68), Eto'o (Van Bommel 88), Ronaldinho

Milan: Dida; Stam, Costacurta (Cafu 64), Kaladze, Serginho; Gattuso (Rui Costa 68), Pirlo, Seedorf; Kakà; Shevchenko, Inzaghi (Gilardino 79)

Ref: Merk (Ger)

We can qualify, says Ancelotti
27.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti is going into tonight’s Barcelona Champions League tie with no fear. “We have nothing to lose,” he stated.

The Rossoneri will kick off tonight’s semi-final after losing the first leg 1-0 at the San Siro, but the tactician is remaining optimistic.

“It’s true that we are a goal down, yet that may in fact be a positive for my side,” the tactician stated.

“We no longer have anything to lose and we have the quality to play for a place in the Paris Final next month.”

Milan did create numerous chances in the opening 90 minutes, but were punished for some erratic finishing.

“We must not waste any opportunities that we create,” added the Coach. “We need to play for the whole game like we played for an hour in the opening encounter.

“Milan have come to the Nou Camp, not to limit Barca's play, but to impose our own style of football and we mustn’t be afraid to do that.

“I want my team to play with personality out there. Then, if we are eliminated, it will be no disaster to have lost out to a great team like Barcelona.

“They’ll play pretty much as they did last week. They’ll be very balanced and aim to keep possession, something they are very good at.”

The game is likely to see Pippo Inzaghi return to first team action after he missed the 1-0 reverse with illness.

“He’s coming from a period of inactivity, but he’s up for this game,” noted Ancelotti. “He’ll certainly give his best like the rest of the team.

“Our first thought after the defeat in Istanbul last season was to reach Paris. We are so close to that objective, so why should we stop now?”

Costacurta: We can beat Barca
26.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

A crowd of fans saluted Milan as they flew out to Barcelona today and veteran Alessandro Costacurta insists they can conquer the Nou Camp.

“It will undoubtedly be a difficult task, but in the first leg we realised that Barca have some weak spots and, if they play the same way, then I am convinced we won’t get it wrong,” said the 40-year-old defender.

The Rossoneri lost the first leg 1-0 to a Ludovic Giuly goal and must therefore win in Spain to reach their third Champions League Final in four years.

“This team has strength and my positive outlook today is based on the character that this group has shown over the years. Anything can happen once you’re on the field of play, but I am confident.”

Costacurta has respect for Barcelona, but also remembers the crushing 4-0 victory in Athens for the 1994 Champions League Final.

“Just as in 1994, the Spaniards are the favourites going in. Their biggest mistake that year was Johann Cruyff’s comments which assumed they had already won the trophy, as not only did they charge us up, they made Barcelona’s players think themselves unbeatable. We gave them a rude awakening.”

Over 200 fans turned up to Malpensa airport to cheer the players on and this further boosted the atmosphere around Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

“One thing is for sure: we’re going to give this match everything we’ve got,” said Pippo Inzaghi, who missed the first leg due to a bout of tonsillitis.

“We can do this, we just have to be convinced of our abilities,” added Coach Ancelotti. “The team is in good shape and we must play at the level we did in the first match with a little more concentration. Qualification is still within our grasp, so strength, experience and tradition can tell in the long run.”

Vice-President Adriano Galliani was also swept up in the enthusiasm of the supporters, who chanted ‘We believe because we know what you can do.’

“We’ll do everything possible to win the game and I sense the air of a great victory. It’ll certainly be difficult, but Milan will not give up until the final whistle. It’d be wonderful to celebrate the ninth Final in 18 years.”

Rijkaard respects Rossoneri
26.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Frank Rijkaard and Ronaldinho claim they know how to neutralise Milan and get Barcelona to the Champions League Final.

“I fear and respect the Rossoneri, but we are ready,” the Coach told the ‘Gazzetta dello Sport.’ “I have many ideas that I will put into practice, even if we’ll only know at the final whistle if they were the right ones.”

The former Milan hero has already beaten his old teammate Carlo Ancelotti 1-0 in the first leg of this semi-final, but warns the qualification is not yet secure.

“The 1-0 lead is an advantage, but we must always play to win. The goal we scored at San Siro cannot become an obsession for us. Tomorrow will be another game and another story. I don’t want to think about what the worst mistake could be, as all we need to do is win.”

Ronaldinho has been struggling with a slight injury, but was rested at the weekend – as was the entire team, considering their Liga game with Sevilla was rained off – and has fully recovered.

“I am fine and ready for this tie, which will be one of the most important matches I have played in a Barca jersey. We want to make history,” said the Brazilian.

“It’s a difficult test and we must play with intelligence. Milan will put in the performance of their lives and try to score, so we must be ready to stop them.”

Ancelotti is keeping cagey about which tactical moves he will make to limit the Ballon d’Or winner, but Ronaldinho isn’t worried.

“I don’t know who will mark me, whether Alessandro Nesta, Jaap Stam, Marcos Cafu or Gennaro Gattuso. I only know that they are all excellent players. Obviously, I know Marcos a little better, but being Brazilian doesn’t change matters, as it’d be tough to get past him too.”

The statistics do not back Milan’s hopes of reaching the Final in Paris, as they also lost the 1959-60 European Cup tie at home against Barcelona, with a 2-0 scoreline, and ended up losing 5-1 in Spain.

There is a different figure that is more hopeful, as the Rossoneri have qualified in nine of their 10 semi-finals in this competition, missing out only to Real Madrid in 1955-56. It would be Milan’s 11th Champions League Final or Barcelona’s fifth, but the Spaniards have only ever won this trophy once, beating Sampdoria in extra time in 1992.

Cafu extends Milan deal
25.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan have this evening made the surprising announcement that Marcos Cafu has signed a new contract.

The 36-year-old was believed to be on the verge of leaving the San Siro after admitting that he wanted to end his career at Sao Paulo.

However, Cafu will now remain for the 2006-07 after signing an extension until the end of June next year.

The Brazilian national captain joined the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza outfit in 2003, on a free transfer, after spending six years at Roma.

Season over for Ambrosini
25.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Massimo Ambrosini’s season is over after the Milan midfielder suffered a hairline leg fracture at Messina on Saturday.

The midfielder came on as a substitute at the Stadio San Filippo, but limped off just minutes later following a Sicilian challenge.

It’s the second fracture suffered by Ambrosini this term after he picked up a similar injury last September.

The Italian international is expected to be sidelined for the next 40 days even if he should be ready for pre-season training.

Ambrosini has subsequently not been included in Milan’s squad for Wednesday’s Champions League tie at Barcelona.

However, key players Kaka, Andriy Shevchenko and Alessandro Nesta are included despite fitness concerns.

Squad – Goalkeepers: Dida, Kalac, Fiori.

Defenders: Cafu, Costacurta, Kaladze, Marzoratti, Nesta, Maldini, Jankulovski, Simic, Stam.

Midfielders: Gattuso, Kaka, Pirlo, Rui Costa, Seedorf, Serginho, Vogel;

Attackers: Amoroso, Gilardino, Inzaghi, Shevchenko.

Billy wins Baresi comparison
24.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan chief Adriano Galliani has hailed the career of Alessandro Costacurta after he turned 40 today.

“I always thought that Costacurta was at the level of Franco Baresi, Mauro Tassotti and Paolo Maldini,” the Vice-President told the club’s website.

“Not everyone agreed with me at the time, but they all agree with me today.

“I want to wish him all the best, a champion who starts his second 40 years on the eve of the game against Barcelona.

“That tie is one worthy of Billy’s celebration.”

The Varese-born stopper, who is married to a former Miss Italy, was first included in the Milan squad back in 1985-86.

He’s spent his entire career with the Rossoneri apart from a one season loan spell with Monza in the 1986-87 Serie C1 campaign.

The former Italian international, capped 59 times by the Azzurri, recently signed a new one-year contract with the club which will expire in June 2007.

Ancelotti opts for Europe
24.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti insists that his side have a better chance of winning the Champions League than Lo Scudetto.

Although the Rossoneri have closed to within three points of Juventus with just three games of the campaign left, he believes overturning Barcelona’s 1-0 semi-final first leg advantage is an easier task.

“The Champions League is more accessible to us,” he surprisingly told Radio Anch’Io Sport on Monday morning.

“We are convinced that we can win at the Nou Camp, especially because of the way we played for an hour in the first leg.

“Playing in Spain makes no difference. We have the same possibility of playing the way we can even away from the San Siro.

“The Serie A title? Juventus have three difficult games to play, but I think they have what is needed to defend their three point advantage.”

The Turin giants were well clear of Milan earlier this term, yet five successive draws has seen them come dangerously close to throwing their season away.

Most have blamed tiredness for the Old Lady’s stumbling form, but Ancelotti believes they are struggling mentally.

“It’s not just a physical problem but a psychological one,” stated the former Juve boss who himself lost a championship to Lazio after being nine points clear at the top.

“Their Champions League loss to Arsenal has affected them. That defeat led to criticism and subsequently worries within the camp.”

Returning to Wednesday’s European Cup clash, Milan are concerned about the fitness of Andriy Shevchenko, Kaka and Alessandro Nesta.

Although the Italian media seem optimistic that Sheva and Kaka will feature, Ancelotti is not making any promises.

“Nesta is still to have tests,” he explained. “We can only decide on Kaka after training on Tuesday in Spain.

“Everyone is at risk of not playing and they won’t be training today either. We need players who are at 100 per cent to qualify.”

Milan stars on tenterhooks
24.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan admit they’ll only know on Tuesday whether Kaka, Andriy Shevchenko, Marcos Cafu, Massimo Ambrosini and Alessandro Nesta can face Barcelona.

“The situation on the players injured at Messina will be evaluated on a daily basis and a final decision on their availability for the Barcelona game will be taken after Tuesday evening’s training session,” read an official statement on the club website.

Kaka is the biggest doubt after he was stretchered off with a bruised knee after a crunching tackle from Alessandro Nocerino, while Ambrosini spent just 14 minutes on the field before limping off with a knock to the left leg.

Nesta is also at risk for the Champions League semi-final at the Nou Camp with an upper thigh strain and Cafu was hacked down in stoppages by Salvatore Aronica.

Shevchenko was spotted limping out of the locker room after the 3-1 win at Messina’s Stadio San Filippo, but is expected to make a full recovery for the Wednesday night game, which the Rossoneri must win to progress.

“This was an uphill struggle, as we immediately went a goal down and lost three players to injury in the first half-hour, something that has never happened to me,” said Carlo Ancelotti.

“There was a tense atmosphere in this match and a lot of it was down to some irresponsible statements made in the run-up. Messina President Pietro Franza promised ‘an entire city ready to do battle’ and our players bore the brunt of that attitude.”

The good news from the Milanello training ground this morning is that Paolo Maldini and Pippo Inzaghi, who missed Saturday’s match through a muscular problem and tonsillitis respectively, are back in training.

Kaka doubt for Barca clash
23.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Kaka, Massimo Ambrosini, Alessandro Nesta, Andriy Shevchenko and Marcos Cafu are dealing with injuries ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final with Barcelona.

Milan were forced to make three substitutions in the opening 28 minutes of today’s 3-1 win at Messina’s Stadio San Filippo.

Kaka bruised his knee after a tough tackle from Alessandro Nocerino and was stretchered off, while his replacement Ambrosini suffered a muscular problem soon after.

Nesta also limped away with a groin injury, while Cafu was hacked down in stoppages by Salvatore Aronica, a tackle which sparked the brawl that saw Aronica and Clarence Seedorf sent off.

There are reports that Shevchenko was seen limping away from the locker room after the match, so there are also doubts over his full fitness levels.

Johann Vogel, Filippo Inzaghi and Paolo Maldini were absent for this trip to Sicily due to minor injuries, plus Andrea Pirlo was suspended.

“We’ll see what condition I’m in after consulting with the team doctor on Sunday,” explained Nesta on the official Milan website. “Now we must focus on Barcelona and the Scudetto race will come later.”

The Rossoneri face an uphill struggle to reach the Champions League Final, having lost 1-0 on home turf in the first leg.

Inzaghi is on the road to recovery after a bout of tonsillitis, but the biggest doubts for Wednesday’s Nou Camp encounter would appear to be Kaka and Ambrosini.

Messina 1:3 AC Milan - post-match comments
23.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Giampiero Ventura: “We were taking on a world class side and it’s understandable to lose against Milan. We played well in the first half-hour and the start of the second half, then allowed them too much room. If we hadn’t conceded that third goal, there might’ve been the chance for a late equaliser.”

Carlo Ancelotti: “This was a strange game with a controversial lead-up caused by some irresponsible comments. We paid the price for those statements promising a battle royal. Kaka has a nasty bruise on his knee and we’ll have to see his condition tomorrow before deciding if he can play against Barcelona. As for the Scudetto, all we can do is try to win the last three ties and see what happens.”

Favalli to cross San Siro?
22.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

There are reports that Milan will poach out of contract defender Giuseppe Favalli from their rivals Inter in the summer.

The Rossoneri have been delighted with Kakha Kaladze’s transformation into a classy central defender, but this has left them short of a left-back.

Former Lazio man Favalli will be a free agent at the end of the season, as the Nerazzurri do not seem intent on offering a new one-year contract, and it’s claimed Milan are ready to give him a new home on the other side of the San Siro.

The 34-year-old could therefore follow in the footsteps of several other Inter players who have crossed straight over the city, such as Andrea Pirlo, Clarence Seedorf, Dario Simic and Christian Vieri.

The Nerazzurri are happy enough with the break, as they have already secured the services of Ajax left-back Maxwell.

Meanwhile, Roberto Mancini has to make changes for today’s encounter with Reggina, as Esteban Cambiasso has flown to Argentina for a family emergency.

Messina 1:3 AC Milan - match report
22.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Scorers: Sculli 6 (Me), Jankulovski 33 (Mi), Gattuso 43 (Mi), Gilardino 89 (Mi)

Milan lost three players to injury in the first half-hour, but still fought back to earn a potentially crucial win in Sicily in a game that saw four red cards.

The Rossoneri were torn between two competitions, as they wanted to rest players for Wednesday's Champions League semi-final decider with Barcelona, but Juve's dismal run had re-opened the Scudetto race.

Paolo Maldini and Pippo Inzaghi were left behind due to minor injuries, but both the suspended Andrea Pirlo and his natural replacement Johann Vogel were sidelined. Messina were also desperate for points, as they were still in the relegation zone going into this game. Defender Rahman Rezaei sat out a ban.

Messina took a shock lead within the opening six minutes due to a chaotic move. A touched-on free kick took a deflection and Dida only touched it into the path of Giuseppe Sculli to tap in from six yards.

There was bad news for the Rossoneri, as Kaka was stretchered off with an ice-pack on his knee after a foul from Nocerino. Massimo Ambrosini replaced him, but there are doubts over his presence against Barcelona.

Dida pushed an Antonelli volley out at the near post with another less-than-secure intervention, but there was even worse news, as Alessandro Nesta limped off with a muscular problem.

Marco Storari required an instinctive save to keep out Andriy Shevchenko's diving header on 26 minutes.

Carlo Ancelotti's squad appeared to be cursed, as Ambrosini - who had replaced Kaka only 15 minutes earlier - also limped off with an injury to make way for Marek Jankulovski. Within the opening half-hour, Milan had been forced to use up all of their substitutions.

There was at least one bonus, as it was subsitute Jankulovski who scored the equaliser four minutes after coming on. The ex-Udinese man volleyed in with his left foot at the near post from a Serginho cross.

Alberto Gilardino's twisting header on a Jankulovski centre was wide of the target, but the Rossoneri turned the game around completely on the stroke of half-time.

Gennaro Gattuso unleashed a fierce strike from 30 metres to beat Storari and give Milan the lead for the first time in this game.

The drama still wasn't over, as in first half stoppages Nocerino received a second yellow card for hauling back Shevchenko by his jersey.

Clarence Seedorf's glancng header from a free kick was wide of the far post, but 10-man Messina also threatened with a Sergio Floccari header.

The Sicilians again went close, but Jaap Stam was able to clear the danger from Massimo Donati.

Arturo Di Napoli wasted a golden opportunity to equalise from Sculli's free kick, ballooning over the bar from a great position.

At the other end, Shevchenko's strike on the bounce only shook the side-netting.

Sculli was also sent off for a second bookable offence in the final minutes and Milan put the result beyond doubt when Seedorf intercepted a Storari pass towards Aronica, passing across for Gilardino's tap-in.

The tension exploded and ended in a brawl with Aronica and Seedorf red-carded for slapping each other.

Messina: Storari; Zoro, Zanchi, Aronica, Parisi; Antonelli (Sullo 46), Nocerino, Donati, Sculli; Floccari, Muslimovic (Rafael 73)

Milan: Dida; Cafu, Nesta (Stam 17), Kaladze, Serginho; Gattuso, Rui Costa, Seedorf; Kakà (Ambrosini 13) (Jankulovski 28); Shevchenko, Gilardino

Ref: Pieri

Sent off: Nocerino 45 (Me), Sculli 87 (Me), Aronica 91 (Me), Seedorf 91 (Mi)

Ancelotti focused on Messina
22.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan may have closed in on Juventus and prepare for a key clash with Barcelona, but Carlo Ancelotti insists they are focusing on Messina.

“Our minds are very much on the task at hand,” he said as they visit the Sicilian club this afternoon. “It will be a different Milan from the one that lost at Lecce a few weeks ago. We won’t take on Barca until Wednesday, so we have an extra day to recover.”

Paolo Maldini, Pippo Inzaghi and Johann Vogel have not made the trip, along with the suspended Andrea Pirlo, so Ancelotti is forced to make major midfield changes and Manuel Rui Costa could step in. It’s fortuitous timing for the Portuguese veteran, who yesterday aimed a public broadside at the Coach.

“I have a good rapport with Rui Costa and if there were problems I think he would’ve told me,” insisted Ancelotti. “As far as I’m concerned, nothing happened.”

It could be another turning point in the Scudetto race, as Juventus welcome on-form Lazio to the Delle Alpi and that five-point lead could be whittled down even more.

“A victory in Messina would secure second place and that is all we are focusing on right now. What happens in Turin doesn’t interest us, as we are concentrated on our own game and the three points we need to earn.”

It won’t be easy, as the Sicilians are desperate for a result to escape the relegation zone and have only lost four times at the Stadio San Filippo this season.

“Messina are in dire need of points and we know their fans will be out in force to create a passionate atmosphere. However, we have the opportunity to win and have proved this season that we are effective away from home.”

The Rossoneri will be hoping to maintain that trend when they visit the Nou Camp for the Champions League semi-final on Wednesday, needing a win to overturn their 1-0 first leg home defeat.

Milan squad: Dida, Kalac, Fiori; Cafu, Kaladze, Marzoratti, Nesta, Jankulovski, Simic, Stam; Ambrosini, Aubameyang, Gattuso, Kakà, Rui Costa, Seedorf, Serginho; Amoroso, Gilardino, Shevchenko

Rui Costa wants Milan answers
21.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Manuel Rui Costa has told Milan to underline their faith in his abilities or allow him to join another club.

The Portuguese ace is growing frustrated with his bench role at the San Siro as Brazilian ace Kaka continues to be handed the fantasista shirt.

Now he’s urged the outfit to make their intentions clear regarding his status at the club after another campaign in the shadows at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza.

“I have great faith in myself and I’m convinced that I can help Milan,” he said. “However, [boss Carlo] Ancelotti and [chief Adriano] Galliani need to be sure too.

“I still have one year left on my contract and I want to know whether they still believe in me at this club.

“I don’t like the sensation of being a burden or a player who people don’t rate. That’s why I left the national side.

“If the team don’t have faith in me then I think it is only right that I consider another solution for myself.

“There are two roads to go down. If I no longer think I’m up to it then I’ll quit. Otherwise I would like to return to either Benfica or Fiorentina.”

The classy playmaker hit the headlines in his home country while at Benfica where he caught the eye of the Viola.

He joined Milan in 2001 after the Tuscan club tried to clear rising debts.

We can stun Barca, says Inzaghi
21.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan can go to the Nou Camp and shatter Barcelona’s Champions League dream, insists Rossoneri ace Pippo Inzaghi.

The Italian giants lost the first leg of their semi-final 1-0 on Tuesday, but the former Juventus player maintains the tie is not over.

“We deserved to win at the San Siro and instead we find ourselves 1-0 down,” he told Milan Channel.

“But that fact gives us the conviction that we can overturn the result even if we know that it will be extremely tough.

“Yet I believe that Milan can get a good result at the Nou Camp. This squad of players has what is needed to complete a miracle.”

Inzaghi missed the game with a virus, but he is looking to be back in contention for Saturday’s trip to Messina.

“I’m just thinking about making a full recovery now, then I hope to be able to appear against both Messina and then Barcelona,” he added.

“I was disappointed to not have been part of Tuesday’s game in what was a magical atmosphere, something that was tough to watch at home.

“Milan played reasonably well though and we were just unfortunate. But the tie is not over by any means.”

Kaka backs Pippo for WC place
21.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Brazilian ace Kaka has told Italy boss Marcello Lippi to select teammate Pippo Inzaghi for the World Cup Finals.

The striker hasn’t appeared for the Azzurri in over two years and never during the reign of his former Juventus mentor Lippi.

But Inzaghi has made a late push for a place on the German bound plane with a scintillating 2006 so far.

“I believe that Inzaghi deserves the attention of Lippi because he is a player who never stops believing on the field of play,” said the midfielder.

“He chases every ball until the very last kick of the game. He is a very important player for every team in which he plays.”

The pressure is certainly on Lippi to select Inzaghi given the problems affecting the national strikers at the minute.

Although Luca Toni continues to ripple nets, Alessandro Del Piero and Alberto Gilardino haven’t been at their best lately.

Udinese striker Vincenzo Iaquinta is also struggling for form, while Christian Vieri and Francesco Totti are injury doubts.

However, Lippi did meet with the Roma star on Thursday to check on his recovery from an ankle fracture and was happy with what he saw.

“He was in good shape,” stated Lippi. “His recovery is going well. I had positive vibes from seeing him on television and I had some important confirmation today.”

Totti is hoping to be back in action for the Coppa Italia Final first leg against Inter at the Olimpico on May 3.

Milan prepare Gallas swoop
20.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan have moved a step closer to making a bid for Chelsea defender William Gallas, according to reports in Italy.

Stories on Thursday suggest that the Frenchman will be targeted by the Rossoneri, especially given the fresh injection of cash received from their shirt sponsorship deal with gaming firm Bet and Win.

Gallas, whose Stamford Bridge future is in doubt, has been linked with the Italian giants for some given his contractual situation in London.

He’s tied to the Premiership champions until June 2007, but he’s been heavily associated with a summer exit.

Milan are in need of a new stopper with Jaap Stam and possibly Marcos Cafu coming to the end of their stints, and Gallas’ versatility has caught their eye.

The Italian giants have today also hinted that Gallas could be targeted as a result of his nationality.

“Gallas? He has one year left with Chelsea,” Vice-President Adriano Galliani told the Gazzetta dello Sport newspaper.

“All I can say is that we like French players because they are able to adapt quickly to our game, better than other Europeans.

“But I have no intention of commenting on Gallas, [Schalke’s 04 Christian] Poulsen or any other player until May 18.”

Ancelotti staying, BetAndWin confirmed
20.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan have today confirmed that boss Carlo Ancelotti will still be sitting on their bench next season despite the speculation in Spain.

Although the tactician committed his future to the Rossoneri last month when he inked until June 2008, Spanish reports insist that he will still be heading to Real Madrid in the summer.

Milan have again dismissed that suggestion on Wednesday, though, by categorically stating that no split is on the cards.

“Ancelotti is and will continue to be our Coach,” stated Vice-President Adriano Galliani on Wednesday.

“He has two years to run on his contract. I can say with certainty that, despite what some are saying, he’ll remain as Milan boss.”

Galliani also took steps to dismiss speculation linking them with a move for Real Madrid striker Ronaldo.

“I don’t want to take part in useless conversations, we already have the attackers we need,” added the official.

“Our strikers next season will be, in alphabetical order, Amoroso, Gilardino, Inzaghi and Shevchenko.

“Ronaldinho? He’s not a transfer market player and never will be. That’s the same situation for Kaka.”

Galliani also revealed today that former goalkeeper Sebastiano Rossi will become the club’s new ‘keeper Coach from next season.

Meanwhile, the club have confirmed that they have agreed a new shirt sponsorship deal with online betting company Bet and Win.

The Austrian firm will replace Opel on the Rossoneri shirts as their 12-year agreement will end on July 1, 2006.

Ronaldinho respects Rossoneri
19.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Ronaldinho and Carles Puyol admit Milan caused Barcelona problems and they're not celebrating a Champions League Final spot just yet.

"This is a very important result, but we know it's not over yet and there are 90 minutes to go, as we hold great respect for Milan," said the reigning European Player of the Year after the 1-0 victory at the San Siro.

"I swapped shirts with Kaka, but there was no duel between us and if there was I doubt either of us won it. We just wanted to help our teams do the best they could."

Defender Puyol was kept busy by Andriy Shevchenko, Kaka and Alberto Gilardino in the semi-final first leg encounter.

"Milan played very well in the first half and we had problems dealing with their aggressive midfield and high tempo," he said.

"Kaka is a very dangerous element and we knew we had to keep a close eye on him and Andrea Pirlo."

Puyol has repeatedly been linked with a move to the Rossoneri, but was happy to meet captain Paolo Maldini.

"Maldini is one of my sporting heroes and it's great to see him still going at the highest level after all these years," he added.

"I only hope I can follow in his footsteps to a degree, but in my view he's the best defender of all time," concluded the Spaniard.

Seedorf confident of Final chances
19.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Clarence Seedorf takes heart from the opportunities Milan created against Barcelona and remains optimistic for their trip to the Nou Camp.

"We didn't have any problems until the goal," he said after their 1-0 home defeat. "We knew Barcelona would focus on keeping possession, but up until that moment they hadn't created a single gilt-edged scoring opportunity, whereas we had several.

"It reminded me of the away match against Lyon, to be honest. Unfortunately, when you make mistakes at this level, you get punished for them."

The Rossoneri will need a victory in Spain to overturn the result and reach the Champions League Final.

"Every time we got the ball back off them, we managed to create difficulties, even if we could've done better on the finishing.

"That gives us hope for the second leg, as we can still turn this around if we play like we did in the first hour.

"Barca didn't know how to break us down. They have great players who can pull something out of the hat, but so do we, so it's all up in the air."

Seedorf also points out that they could've had even more opportunities had it not been for some attentive Barcelona defending.

"They leave a lot of space at the back when they push forward and two or three times I couldn't quite get the pass through to Serginho that would've opened up a motorway to the goal. We have to make more of this weakness in the second leg."

All eyes were on Ronaldinho and he provided the assist for Ludovic Giuly's winner, but Seedorf insists the Ballon d'Or winner didn't shine at the San Siro.

"I am a fan of talented players, but Milan have to be complimented, as Ronaldinho barely made a mark in this game.

"It was a great goal from Giuly, as that wasn't an easy finish, but the chances we created give us hope for the decider."

Gila unflustered by Euro drought
19.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Alberto Gilardino is confident he can break his continental goal drought in Spain, as Milan try to overturn their first leg semi-final defeat to Barcelona.

"We have everything we need to turn this result around. Unfortunately, tonight we weren't sharp enough in front of goal and couldn't make the most of our chances," said the hitman after their 1-0 loss was decided by a Ludovic Giuly strike.

"We all believe in the Final and were saying as much in the locker room just now, so we're certainly not giving up."

Gilardino is yet to score a single Champions League goal since his £17m summer move from Parma and had Milan's best chances on the night, hitting the upright and firing wide from Kaka's pass.

"I am relaxed and try to work hard, but above all I need patience, as sooner or later this European goal will arrive.

"As for that opportunity, I was running and was nudged from behind by the defender, so I lost my balance and pushed Ricky's pass over the bar."

If Pippo Inzaghi recovers from his bout of tonsillitis in time, it's expected that he will partner Andriy Shevchenko at the Nou Camp in the second leg.

"I spoke to him before the game and he wished me good luck. He's recovering already and will be back at work soon."

Kaka: We can take Barca
19.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Kaka insists Barcelona did not impress despite their victory and believes playing at the Nou Camp will suit Milan more.

“At the end of the day, it was just details that decided the match,” he said after the 1-0 home defeat in the Champions League semi-final.

“We created good chances, but you can’t expect to put a great side like Barcelona under constant pressure. They had nothing in the first half and only really created opportunities thanks to our mistakes.”

Kaka created perhaps their best opportunity of the second half, as he rushed into the area on Andriy Shevchenko’s pass and opted to roll across for Alberto Gilardino, who ballooned off target.

“These things happen, as I had my back to the goal and when I turned saw the goalkeeper right in front of me, so I chose to hand it over to Gilardino. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. I had difficulty under that man-marking from Edmilson, but managed to find a bit more space in the second half.”

If the Rossoneri are to reach their second consecutive Champions League Final – their third in four seasons – then they must win at the Nou Camp.

“Of course it’ll be more difficult, but we have to believe in our chances at all times and we can do it,” concluded Kaka.

“Perhaps we’ll even be more suited to playing in Spain, where Barcelona will leave us more space. What’s for sure is that if we go there thinking it’s all over, then we’re dead.”

Rijkaard 'closed down' Milan
19.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Former Milan legend Frank Rijkaard admits he changed his system to close down the Rossoneri and praised Barcelona’s defence.

“The pressure we put on them in midfield was very important, especially against a side like Milan, and our players did a great job. When you reach this level, it’s only normal to adapt your system to the opponents, as we cannot just leave all their world class players alone to do their stuff,” said the Blaugrana boss after the 1-0 victory at San Siro.

Pippo Inzaghi was out of action due to a virus and his finishing was sorely missed, but Rijkaard warns that his team also felt the absence of Deco, Henrik Larsson and Lionel Messi.

“In all honesty, I think that Alberto Gilardino played very well and the whole team created good chances, but this is football and when the ball doesn’t go in, it doesn’t count. If we have to talk about players who were out tonight, then we were also missing members of great quality.”

Barcelona have the upper hand for the second leg at the Nou Camp, though Rijkaard is again ready to focus on defence rather than the all-attack football that made them famous.

“I hope it will be similar to the performance we put in today, with a strong defence and well-prepared for a Milan side that will come and attack us the way they always do. Before the game I just wanted to win and considered that a crucial building block so we could come back in front of our fans and make the job a little easier.”

The San Siro had an incredible atmosphere, but Rijkaard insists he was not hit by the emotion of the occasion after his many years at the club.

“With everything that is happening around you, all you’re thinking about is taking on a great team like Milan that doesn’t often lose at home. That is an important objective and work is all that’s on your mind.”

Ancelotti: It's not over yet
19.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Carlo Ancelotti is ruing mistakes in front of goal, but insists Milan can still reach the Final with a victory away to Barcelona.

“I think that it was a balanced game in which Milan tried to take the game to Barca, who tried to slow down the tempo,” said the Coach after the 1-0 home defeat in the Champions League semi-final first leg.

“We had some good chances and couldn’t quite finalise them. It’s a bad result, but it doesn’t kill our hopes of reaching the Final, as anything could happen in the second leg.”

Alberto Gilardino hit the woodwork and there were two fine saves on Andriy Shevchenko and Paolo Maldini headers, but the finishing prowess of Pippo Inzaghi – out with tonsillitis – was sorely missed. It's particularly worrying that Gilardino is yet to score in the Champions League.

“Barcelona created almost all their opportunities on the counter-attack, especially after the goal, as we had to leave a bit more space open at the back,” added Ancelotti.

“We have to be convinced we can do it and play like we did tonight, as we did well and just didn’t take our chances. That was the only problem we had, really.”

The tactician does not think the Rossoneri are done for, as it is still a slender result and Inzaghi should be back for the second leg.

“Paradoxically, this result allows us to be free and attack at all costs, whereas I think Barca will hold back a bit more at the Nou Camp. The Spaniards didn’t particularly impress me tonight, as they tried to slow the tempo and control the pace.”

Former Milan star and current Barcelona Coach Frank Rijkaard put Edmilson in a man-marking job on Kaka.

“I tried to change a few things as we had trouble winning back the ball, so I changed our midfield and they adjusted to mutate with us,” explained Ancelotti.

“Barcelona are very good at keeping possession, so it was tough to break through that, but the number of good scoring opportunities we created proves that we managed it several times and can do so again at the Nou Camp.”

Samuel Eto’o was unable to score at San Siro, but pointed out that was never going to be simple against Milan.

“I don’t know whether we deserved it or not, but the important thing was to get the result and now we need to make sure we stay ahead in the second leg,” said the Cameroon international.

“It was always going to be difficult here and we knew there weren’t going to be many chances. A 1-0 result isn’t an easy one to hang on to, but it is an advantage and we hope it will help us reach the Final.”

Mark Van Bommel also added that the Spaniards would repeat this less gung-ho approach in the second leg.

“We cannot play defensively, as we always want to attack. Having said that, we have the advantage, so we can sit back a little more and invite Milan forward.”

AC Milan 0:1 FC Barcelona - match report
19.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Scorer: Giuly 57 (B)

Milan hit the woodwork with Alberto Gilardino, but Ludovic Giuly gave Barcelona a potentially decisive victory at the San Siro.

It'll take something very special indeed for the Rossoneri to reach their second consecutive Champions League Final, as they must win at the Nou Camp on April 26.

This was essentially an early Final between the two favourites for the trophy, but also saw the current top scorers in the competition and the most recent winners of the Ballon d'Or - Andriy Shevchenko and Ronaldinho - face off. They had already met in the Group phase last season with a 1-0 win at the San Siro and a last-gasp 2-1 defeat in the Nou Camp. The Coaches were also familiar, as Frank Rijkaard and Carlo Ancelotti were teammates in Arrigo Sacchi's Grande Milan.

Milan had a heavy blow with the absence of form striker Pippo Inzaghi due to tonsillitis, with Billy Costacurta also ruled out, but Jaap Stam returned to the fold after injury. Barca also had problems with Henrik Larsson, Lionel Messi and the suspended Deco left in Spain. Edmilson and Rafael Marquez returned from fitness problems.

In a new move, the Rossoneri put the travelling fans in the third tier, effectively surrounding the field and both goals with home supporters that lit up the stadium with an organised choreography before kick-off.

Milan had a very aggressive start with both Kaka's cross and Jaap Stam's header charged down from an Andrea Pirlo free kick, but Barca got into a slow passing rhythm in a bid to take control of the game.

Carles Puyol required a fine tackle inside the area to stop Kaka's run, but on the resulting throw-in Alberto Gilardino smartly chested down the ball to turn between two defenders and slammed his shot into the upright from the tightest of angles.

Moments later, a sweeping Clarence Seedorf cross from the left found Shevchenko's downward header and brought a great save out of Valdes at the back post.

Barcelona's first shot on goal came on 22 minutes with Samuel Eto'o's strike from the edge of the box well held by Dida. Ronaldinho's free kick from a very dangerous position was charged down by the wall.

Dida rushed off his line to pluck the ball off Ludovic Giuly's foot as he sprung the offside trap and had a clear run on goal.

A Pirlo free kick went out after skimming the head of Shevchenko from seven yards, then Kaka was hacked down on the counter-attack, earning Puyol a yellow card.

Pirlo's free kick skimmed the near post, but Valdes had that corner covered.

Pirlo gave away the ball on the edge of the area, but the Milan defence managed to close down Barca's trident and Dida held Giuly's finish.

A splendid Pirlo long ball found Gilardino, but the Parma man was flagged for an extremely tight offside position. A good opportunity went begging when Kaka and Seedorf bumped into each other on the edge of the area, neither able to decide who was going to put the cross in.

In first half stoppages, Eto'o ballooned over the bar from the D after Milan had foolishly lost the ball in midfield.

There were no substitutions at the half-time break, but the tempo of the game lifted considerably and there was a curious battle of the back-heel flicks between Ronaldinho and Alessandro Nesta.

Milan had another fantastic scoring opportunity on 50 minutes when Kaka sprung the offside trap and rolled across for Gilardino, who was off balance and pushed it wide from six yards. The Brazilian should perhaps have gone for goal himself.

Stam had a shot charged down on the edge of the area, then the Dutchman's looping cross-shot landed on the roof of the net.

However, it was Barcelona who took the lead soon after. Ronaldinho managed to shrug off Gennaro Gattuso's challenge and pass through to Giuly, who fired his finish into the top corner at the near post from six yards.

Barca almost snatched a second on the counter-attack after Seedorf was dispossessed by Giuly, but Ronaldinho's angled drive clipped the upright with Dida beaten.

Dida was at full stretch to capture a fine Iniesta drive from distance after a solid team move.

Ancelotti made a change on 66 minutes, with Paolo Maldini replacing a disappointing Pirlo, moving Seedorf to central midfield and Serginho to a more advanced left flank role. Massimo Ambrosini took over from a furious Gattuso.

Barca also replaced goal-scorer Giuly with Brazilian Juliano Belletti, but Oleguer was booked for time-wasting and will miss the second leg just before making way for Thiago Motta.

Kaka went on one of his surging runs only to fire wide from 20 metres, then Serginho failed to make the most of a sweeping Stam cross that missed Gilardino.

Eto'o skipped round Stam, but fired well wide of the far post, the ex-Manchester United defender replaced by Marcos Cafu immediately afterwards in a bid to bring more pace to the side.

There was a glorious opportunity to score an equaliser 10 minutes from time when Kaka threaded through for Ambrosini, but he horribly scuffed his shot to fire wide with only the goalkeeper to beat.

Nesta was booked for stopping a Ronaldinho run and the Brazilian curled the resulting free kick over the bar.

Valdes flew to pluck a precise Maldini header out of the air from a corner kick, then Kaka also threatened with a low drive that skimmed the upright.

Milan: Dida; Stam (Cafu 76), Nesta, Kaladze, Serginho; Gattuso (Ambrosini 73), Pirlo (Maldini 67), Seedorf; Kakà; Gilardino, Shevchenko

Barcelona: Valdes; Oleguer (Motta 75), Puyol, Marquez, Van Bronckhorst; Van Bommel, Edmilson, Iniesta; Giuly (Belletti 70), Eto'o, Ronaldinho (Lopez 89)

Ref: Sars (Fra)

Puyol fears Milan defence
18.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Barcelona captain Carles Puyol has warned his attacking teammates to be at their very best against Milan this evening.

Although the Spaniards have some of Europe’s top offensive players in the form of Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto’o, the stopper insists they’ll have to deliver something special against the Rossoneri rearguard.

“Milan have the best defence in the world,” the international stated on the eve of the Champions League semi-final first leg.

“They have players at the back who have great experience and who are also physically in good shape.”

Puyol, rumoured to have been a transfer target for Italy’s top clubs in the past, added: “All of their side is experienced and that may be of some significance.

“We need to turn into a great side against Milan at the San Siro. It’s important that we come away from Italy having scored and not lost the game.

“Our chances of reaching the Final? I would say that both sides have a 50-50 chance,” he diplomatically added.

While Puyol didn’t hide his admiration for Milan’s defence, he also had words of praise for Andriy Shevchenko.

The Ukrainian international is likely to keep the stopper busy this evening and Puyol is well aware of that fact.

“It’s always extremely difficult to mark him,” he added. “We must all remain concentrated because Milan are a side who punish mistakes.”

Bring on Barca, says Seedorf
18.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf insists that his side will go into tonight’s Champions League game against Barcelona with no fear.

The two teams meet at the San Siro in the first leg of their eagerly anticipated semi-final and the Dutchman insists his teammates are in the right frame of mind to collect a result they need.

“We don’t fear any team in the world,” Seedorf told Datasport on Tuesday. “Of course they have a number of champions in their squad which makes them a very strong side.

“But a team wins with the help of everyone and not just with one or two players during a game of this importance.

“They obviously have some exceptional elements, but we must stay alert against all of the Barcelona players and not just one in particular.

“Our experience will be key to the game though in a match which will be entertaining between two very fine sides.”

The Rossoneri go into the tie fresh from a 1-0 win in the derby, a victory which saw Kakha Kaladze make himself a goalscoring hero.

“All of the team is doing well at this moment in time,” added the former Ajax ace.

“Kaladze is in great form right now and he played brilliantly against Inter, as well as getting the goal.”

Milan to 'ignore' Ronaldinho
18.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan will not use a man-marker on Barcelona star Ronaldinho in Tuesday’s Champions League showdown, insists boss Carlo Ancelotti.

The Brazilian is undoubtedly the Spanish outfit’s biggest threat, but the Italian maintains that he won’t ask one player to shadow the South American in the semi-final first leg clash.

“I won’t put a man on him,” said Ancelotti in Monday’s media conference. “We’ve never used that tactic in a game.

“We’ll look to control his presence as best we can in the zones of the pitch which he will try to play in.”

Barca arrive at the San Siro with numerous injury problems, including the loss of their Brazilian-born Portuguese international Deco and Argentine Lionel Messi.

“I don’t think that Frank Rijkaard will change the entire shape of his side just because Deco is missing,” noted Ancelotti when asked what he expected from the Spaniards.

Milan go into the game fresh from a 1-0 win over city rivals Inter and Ancelotti is demanding another victory tomorrow night.

“It will be doubly important for us to win the game by not conceding a goal, but the most important thing is to win,” added the Coach.

“Milan and Barcelona are two great sides and perhaps are the best expression of football in Europe at this present time.

“I think our two games will be entertaining and quality affairs. However, I also have to say that Arsenal and Villarreal deserve their place in the last four.”

Ancelotti went on to publicly back under-fire goalkeeper Nelson Dida and goal shy striker Alberto Gilardino who will both start against the Nou Camp outfit.

“I hope that Dida isn’t called to make any saves at all, but if he does then we all have faith in his ability,” he added.

“Gilardino didn’t score in the derby but gave an important contribution. I ask the same from him on Tuesday.

“This is our third semi-final in four years and we go into the game able to play our best football, unlike in previous years before Inter and PSV Eindhoven.”

Rijkaard: Let’s make history
17.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard insists his side could write themselves a chapter in history by beating Milan in the Champions League semi-final.

The two teams meet at the San Siro on Tuesday night and the former Rossoneri midfielder has underlined just how important the game will be.

“This tie is our chance to consecrate us as a great side,” said the Dutchman. “We are hungry for success, but now we must demonstrate that in Europe.”

Rijkaard’s Barcelona are undoubtedly one of the continent’s top sides and had to beat Premiership giants Chelsea to progress in the competition.

Although they won the Liga last season and are on the verge of doing the same this term, he’s desperate to lift the European Cup.

“We are a squad of young players who want to keep winning, but the time has come for us to leave our mark on the international stage,” added the former Holland boss.

“If we want to get through this semi-final then we are going to have to do something that people will be talking about for years to come.”

Rijkaard knows what awaits his side tomorrow night though after he himself won two European Cups with the Milan giants during his midfield career.

“They are a side with great experience,” added Rijkaard, a man who played alongside Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti.

“They have an excellent system of play and a very strong defence. It will be interesting to see how we cope against such opponents.”

Rijkaard concluded by commenting on reports that Milan boss Ancelotti is motivating his troops for the game by showing his men a picture of Ronaldinho.

“I prefer to pin up a picture of my team in the changing rooms because we have great faith in ourselves,” he noted. “We shouldn’t think about our opponents.”

Gilardino set for Pippo role
17.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Alberto Gilardino will start in attack for Milan against Barcelona after Pippo Inzaghi was ruled out of the Champions League semi-final.

Inzaghi has been crucial to the Rossoneri’s European Cup campaign by netting braces in the San Siro legs against both Bayern Munich and Lyon.

But he’s failed to recover from the illness which saw him miss the derby on Friday night and will subsequently sit out the Barca clash too.

Boss Carlo Ancelotti will subsequently field Alberto Gilardino in attack alongside Andriy Shevchenko on Tuesday.

The tie will be a big test of Gilardino’s ability given the recent goal drought which the £18m summer signing is suffering from.

The ex-Parma sensation hasn’t netted in one of his eight Champions League games so far, where he has amassed 406 minutes.

Although he has grabbed 16 goals in Serie A, the Italian international hasn’t bagged since the 4-0 win at Udinese on March 19.

Milan do have Shevchenko to rely on though as he’s collected nine in the European Cup this term, while Kaka will orchestrate play behind the attacking duo.

There is good news for boss Ancelotti, though, with the likely return from injury of Dutch master Jaap Stam.

He’s being tipped to start on the right side of defence, with Brazilian flying wing-back Serginho set to begin on the left.

Alessandro Nesta and Kakha Kaladze, fresh from his derby goal, should start in the centre, with Paolo Maldini taking his spot on the bench.

Milan probable: Dida; Stam, Nesta, Kaladze, Serginho; Pirlo, Gattuso, Seedorf; Kaka; Gilardino, Shevchenko.

Inzaghi to miss Barca clash?
16.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Pippo Inzaghi is suffering from a bout of tonsillitis and is a major doubt for Tuesday’s Champions League semi-final with Barcelona.

The Milan striker already had to skip the 1-0 derby victory over Inter due to a high temperature and over the weekend it developed into full-blown tonsillitis.

He is undergoing treatment and taking large doses of antibiotics in a bid to have him in good shape for the first leg encounter at San Siro on Tuesday evening, but it’s becoming increasingly unlikely this will happen in time.

It would be an extremely heavy blow to Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who pushed past Olympique Lyonnais in the quarter-final thanks to an Inzaghi brace.

The former Juventus hitman is perhaps the Rossoneri’s form player in Europe at the moment, scoring four goals in the last three games.

His replacement, Alberto Gilardino, is still looking for his first Champions League goal following a £17m move from Parma in the summer and has netted just twice in the last two months.

With this in mind and Barcelona’s all-attack football, Ancelotti could be tempted to fall back on the Christmas Tree formation that helped him to win this tournament in 2003.

Manuel Rui Costa could come in to help Kaka support lone striker Andriy Shevchenko, who is now the most prolific ever marksman in the Champions League with 52 goals.

Barcelona also have problems coming into Tuesday’s game, as they will be without the injured Lionel Messi and Henrik Larsson.

Ronaldinho was rested for Friday’s 1-0 Liga win over Villarreal as he tries to recover from a pulled right thigh muscle, while Deco is suspended for the first leg.

The two teams met in last season’s Group stage, Milan winning 1-0 at San Siro and losing 2-1 to a last-gasp Ronaldinho strike at the Nou Camp.

Milan still believe in Scudetto
16.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

After Juventus’ lead was sliced to five points with four games to go, Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti and his players admit they still believe in the Scudetto.

“We’re not going to give in on the Serie A title race,” said Ancelotti following last night’s 1-0 victory over rivals Inter. “There’s still everything to play for.”

The gap would’ve been four points, but Fabio Cannavaro’s controversial equaliser at Cagliari with the last kick of the game hasn’t disguised the crisis that the leaders are going through.

At the end of Week 32, the Turin giants were nine points out in front, but a series of six official games without a win has seen them crash out of the Champions League and that Serie A lead cut to just five points.

“Now we can really dream of taking the Scudetto out of Juve’s hands,” smiled Clarence Seedorf.

Marcos Cafu agreed with his teammate that this is no longer an unlikely scenario with four rounds left to play. “After this victory over Inter, we have to focus on chasing down Juventus, who aren’t all that far away.”

Although the Rossoneri are expected to aim most of their attentions on to the Champions League, where they’ll face Barcelona in the semi-finals on Tuesday, the Scudetto is still up for grabs.

“Before people start assigning the title to Juventus, they should wait and see what happens. Until it is mathematically certain, we are keeping this as one of our objectives,” added Kakha Kaladze.

“It doesn’t cost us anything to try, as if Juve keep slipping up like this, then the final weeks of the season are going to get very hot indeed,” continued Alessandro Nesta.

It would not be the first time Milan have fought back against the odds, as in 1998-99, Alberto Zaccheroni’s Rossoneri were nine points adrift of Lazio before winning the title on the final day.

Kaladze celebrates key strike
15.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Kakhaber Kaladze knows his winning goal in the Milan derby could well prove to be a turning point in this season for the Rossoneri.

“I am very happy, as this was a crucial match and now we are five points clear of Inter. That’s not to be sniffed at,” said the defender who sealed the 1-0 result.

“I saw my goal again on television and must thank Clarence Seedorf for that pass, then I hit the ball as hard as I could. It was important to win here so we could concentrate only on Barcelona.”

The Champions League semi-final is foremost in their minds now, but with Juventus stuttering badly and the gap narrowing to four points ahead of the leaders’ encounter with Cagliari, are there regrets over a Scudetto challenge that ended too early?

“Of course looking at the table now there are a few regrets, but I think that the line-up we fielding in the 1-0 defeat at Lecce was the right one,” continued the Georgian defender.

“Just think if we had won at the Stadio Via del Mare with a full-strength squad and then lost against Lyon. We had to take the risk and rotate the side.”

Carlo Ancelotti’s men seem to be hitting form at the right time, although there were a few hairy moments in the closing stages of the derby.

“We are improving with each game and have created a real sense of consistency in defence. We must carry on along this path, as this is the stage of the season where every game becomes decisive.”

Teammate Alessandro Nesta was also quick to praise Kaladze, who had played primarily as a left-back for the Rossoneri, on his newfound confidence.

“Kaladze started out as a central defender, but for various reasons ended up moving to the flank. Thankfully, he didn’t forget all he’d learned in those years,” smiled the ex-Lazio captain.

“We didn’t have a good start to the game, but it was an important result and we are gambling with our whole season against Barcelona. We can’t try to defend against them, as sooner or later they will score, so we have to attack and put them under pressure. As for the Scudetto race, we’ll try to win all the remaining games and see what happens.”

Ancelotti admires Juve-style win
15.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti said this derby win was a hard-fought and physical performance in the Juventus style.

“We had the brakes on a little bit in this match and were too slow in the first half, especially on the left flank. It was a victory born more out of strength than quality, which is rare for us.”

Kakhaber Kaladze’s lone strike decided the 1-0 result against local rivals Inter, which put the Rossoneri five points clear in the race for second place.

“It was a difficult game, as Inter closed down all the spaces and hardly allowed us to play the ball to feet. That is our main strength and we should generally avoid long balls forward.”

Yet there was tension in the closing stages, as some Dida howlers threatened to throw points away the same way they did earlier this season in the Derby della Madonnina.

“We made a few mistakes, but this can happen against a talented side like Inter. It went well despite our errors. Dida’s situation and so-called distractions are becoming a bit of a cliché. He’s not perfect, but he at least tries to command the area and come out for the ball. In the past he was criticised for sitting back.”

Paolo Maldini and Marcos Cafu were chosen for the full-back roles despite coming back from months out with injury.

“After such a long time out, they aren’t 100 per cent match fit yet, but their desire and motivation give them an edge. This was a tense encounter, but we have time to recover our energy for Tuesday’s semi-final,” continued Ancelotti.

“We can now focus on the Champions League, but we’re not giving up in Serie A, as this was a crucial result in our bid for second place.”

The Rossoneri’s attention can now turn to Tuesday’s Champions League semi-final first leg at San Siro with Spanish giants Barcelona.

“I think everyone knows Barca, so talking about their qualities and defects is redundant. They are used to attacking, so we need the strength, courage and conviction to take the game to them and command the play. Milan also focus on entertaining football, so it should be a great match for the neutral.”

AC Milan 1:0 Internazionale - match report
15.4 || webmaster

Source: Football Italia

Scorer: Kaladze 69 (M)

Despite a series of Dida howlers, Milan have compounded Inter's crisis as a Kakha Kaladze goal decided the Derby della Madonnina.

There was a palpable tension around the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza ahead of this showdown, as not only was it a battle between city rivals and a head to head for second place, it was also Inter's first home game since the shock Champions League exit to Villarreal. The fans took that loss very badly and a group even ambushed players in Malpensa Airport car park, hitting Cristiano Zanetti on the back of the head. Despite that injury, the midfielder started this match with a man-marking job on Kaka.

Among security fears and so Milan could better prepare for next week's semi-final against Barcelona, the match was brought forward to 6pm local time on Good Friday. Curiously, the last time the derby was played on a Friday, it ended 6-0 for the Rossoneri. The Nerazzurri supporters also staged a protest, leaving the Curva Nord empty for this match. The Rossoneri responded with a huge banner covering the entire Sud end of the stadium likening Inter's endless lack of success to 'A Divine Comedy.'

Julio Ricardo Cruz was suspended and Juan Sebastian Veron injured, while Milan were without Jaap Stam and the feverish Pippo Inzaghi, but welcomed back Andriy Shevchenko after he rested in the 4-1 win over Chievo. Inter had won their clash with a heart-stopping 3-2 finale in December, but they hadn't won the 'home' derby since 2002 and the pressure was back on their shoulders again.

Inter had an aggressive start with Luis Figo running at the still not 100 per cent fit Paolo Maldini and putting in dangerous crosses for Adriano. However, there was bad news when Sinisa Mihajlovic picked up a muscular injury within the opening nine minutes and made way for Marco Materazzi.

Soon after, Adriano's shot was charged down and the long-range Dejan Stankovic follow-up swung over the bar.

Milan also had a good chance when Marcos Cafu got past Nicolas Andre Burdisso at the byline, but Alberto Gilardino's header was off target and he was penalised for a push.

Adriano looked more sprightly than recent outings and dribbled past three players inside the area before a sliding tackle cut him off with only Dida to beat.

Moments later, Dida only parried a Stankovic strike and the defence was able to scramble clear for a corner before Esteban Cambiasso could pounce on the loose ball.

Cafu was booked for clattering into Burdisso, then the tension rose with a row between former Lazio teammates Stankovic and Alessandro Nesta. There was controversy on the half-hour mark, as Adriano's move was interrupted when the referee and the linesman got into a muddle over an offside call, then Gilardino's penalty appeals were waved away as his handling offence had started the move.

Shevchenko failed to get on the end of an Andrea Pirlo free kick at the far post, while Burdisso got in front of Shevchenko for a crucial intervention inside the area.

Gilardino's chest and volley from just inside the area was charged down by defensive bodies in the centre. The former Parma player turned his marker and then fell on the very edge of the box, but his appeals were rejected.

On the counter-attack, Javier Zanetti's powerful but central strike was plucked out of the air by Dida.

In first half stoppages there was panic inside the Inter area. Gilardino fell again after a tussle with Materazzi and, as the move continued, Clarence Seedorf drilled over from close range.

After the break, Gilardino sprung the offside trap on Seedorf's pass, but Julio Cesar rushed off his line to close him down.

Moments later, Seedorf was left totally unmarked to get on the end of Kaka's deflected cross, but the Dutchman slipped and his scuffed shot was only kept out by Julio Cesar's foot at full stretch.

Inter's best chance of the game so far came on the hour mark, as Stankovic's cross found Luis Figo from seven yards, but his free header was well wide of the far post.

Pirlo was booked and will miss next week's trip to Messina, but Milan had an incredible double chance soon after.

Shevchenko's looping header beat Julio Cesar, stuck in no man's land, and Ivan Cordoba's goalline clearance went towards Kaka, only for the goalkeeper to recover his position and fingertip it round the near post.

The deadlock was eventually broken after 69 minutes of play. Materazzi kept everyone onside as Seedorf floated the ball back into the centre after a set-piece and an unmarked Kakha Kaladze had all the time he needed to control and thump under the crossbar with his left foot at the back post.

Inter fought back and a Stankovic effort was smothered by Dida, then veteran Alessandro Costacurta replaced Cafu, who is coming back off a long-term injury.

Stankovic drilled well wide from a promising position, but the Nerazzurri were lacking firepower and threw on Oba Martins for Cristiano Zanetti, returning to a 4-4-2 system. Pirlo was disappointing on the day and made way for Johann Vogel, while Manuel Rui Costa took over from Shevchenko to move Kaka further up the field. Santiago Solari hoped to replicate his good Coppa Italia form when he replaced Pizarro.

Cambiasso's powerful volley was over the bar, but there was another blow when Stankovic picked up a knee injury six minutes from time. As all the substitutions had been completed, he had to struggle on.

Dida's errors proved decisive in Inter's 3-2 win earlier this season and he nearly gave away another late goal. The 'keeper completely mistimed his exit on Adriano and Cambiasso's header almost nestled into an empty net.

Nesta needed a difficult intervention to prevent Adriano chesting down a long ball forward. From the resulting corner kick, Dida again was appalling by fumbling the ball and he was fortunate the Inter players were unable to take advantage.

Moments later, Dida did rather better to smother a deflected Stankovic piledriver at the second attempt.

Milan: Dida; Cafu (Costacurta 73), Nesta, Kaladze, Maldini; Gattuso, Pirlo (Vogel 78), Seedorf; Kaka; Shevchenko (Rui Costa 80), Gilardino

Inter: Julio Cesar; J Zanetti, Cordoba, Mihajlovic (Materazzi 10), Burdisso; Figo, Pizarro (Solari 84), Cambiasso, C Zanetti (Martins 76), Stankovic; Adriano

Ref: De Santis