Forza Milano

On the morning after the UEFA Champions League final, we sit back and reflect on the game that brought millions across the globe to their feet once more. The rematch from 05’s final promised excitement, and for the most part, it delivered just that. Out of the gates, it looked as though the Italian giants – AC Milan – were determined to leave their mark convincingly on this years European campaign, however, after a short burst early it was the breakout speed and quick passing of Liverpool that dictated the pace of the first half.

Several chances early were squandered by England’s most successful club at the European level, but it appeared as though eventually they would find the mark. Kaka, who was the talk of the tournament leading into the final match-day was silenced through much of the first half, but alas, in the 45^th minute with the ball just 22 yards from the goal the inevitable finally happened; Xabi Alonso of Liverpool FC, in the final seconds before the whistle sounded made an ambitious effort to tackle Kaka and end the threat that he poses each and every time he touches the ball.

As their legs every so slightly brushed up against one another, the Brazilian international hit the turf with agony on his face leading to a free kick from Andrea Pirlo, one of the world’s best free-kick takers. The ensuing kick ricocheted off of teammate Filippo Inzaghi and past a helpless Reina into the back of the net. It was a tough one to swallow, but Liverpool pressed on in the second half, narrowly missing chances from both Riise and Gerrard.

I think if the tables were tilted to the Milan side in any aspect, it would have been in the coaching decisions by Rafael Benítez who left Harry Kewel sidelined while a sluggish Zenden struggled to keep up to pace down the left side for the better part of the game. Another questionable call concerned the usage (or lack of) of Peter Crouch who emerged from the bench after the 80^th minute of play. Liverpool, who attempted far more crosses and added 6 more corners connected with very few of them, and could have used the services of 6’7” Peter Crouch at many points. Regardless, the Italian side prevailed victorious, and deservingly so; for the day…. Forza Milano