Two points lost or one earned? The eternal dilemma presents itself punctually after the draw between Cagliari and Milan (1-1), but this time there seems to be no doubt: it is a heavy point, one to welcome (almost) with a smile. "I think it's a good point against an excellent Cagliari that allows us to continue the long positive streak - admitted Massimiliano Allegri, before concluding with a laconic - when you can't win it's always better to draw than lose". Because up to 8 minutes from the end, Cagliari seemed to be masters of their own destiny; Milan kept the ball but never made themselves dangerous and the clock ticked in favor of the Sardinians.
Then, as often happens in football, the episode that turns everything upside down. Played in the strait by De Sciglio who ends on goal, Agazzi's miracle and, on the rebound, Astori's foul intervention on Balotelli. Clear penalty and admonition, which, for the Cagliari defender (up to that point the best player on the pitch) means expulsion. In one fell swoop the rossoblu find themselves caught up and with one man down, moreover with still 8 minutes of the match (plus recovery) to play. It is no coincidence that it is only in that short (but intense) period of time that Milan is close to victory. With Balotelli, who wastes his header from close range and with Bojan, whose left foot is deflected by the excellent Agazzi.
This is what happened from the 82nd minute onwards, but the Rossoneri had really done too little before. Merit of Cagliari, fielded very well by the Pulga-Lopez duo, but also a demerit of Milan, too predictable and awkward compared to the latest outings. It should also be underlined how, once again, the Rossoneri central players have gone through the pains of hell, more for their own demerits than for the merits of the Thiago Ribeiro-Ibarbo-Sau trio. Because only the Colombian actually made himself dangerous, making fun of Zapata and Mexes. And to think that Messi and his companions will arrive in a few days…
That's why, on balance, Is Arenas is a good result for Milan, which also limits the damage in the standings, where only Inter is gaining ground. "We need balance - Allegri thought - it is normal that by winning we would have gone one point away from Lazio but it is also true that many games and several direct clashes are missing". Mario Balotelli still in goal, always impeccable from the penalty spot (no mistakes out of 13 shots in his career), a little less in celebrations. Silencing opposing fans isn't the best way to make yourself loved, and the dislike then transfers entirely to Milan. "With his purchase I lost the votes of the fans of the other teams - said Berlusconi - because they are not happy at all". Speaking of the Rossoneri president, Allegri's response to Saturday's attack arrived. However, those expecting fireworks were disappointed: “I haven't prepared unfortunately…I can't comment on what I haven't heard. However, lately we always play with the three up front, even if facing Barça is a bit more complicated”.
Closing dedicated to El Shaarawy, unusually replaced in the 60th minute, moreover with Milan down by a goal. The Pharaoh has offered a colorless test, and someone begins to speak of a crisis, or in any case of incompatibility with Balotelli. “I think there could be a moment of decline, he has done very well up to now – defended Allegri. – He can improve in some plays, giving less points of reference, but there is no problem with Balotelli ”. The Rossoneri fans hope so, because to complete a comeback from the Champions League the contribution of both will be needed.
