Luka Modrić (foto: Getty Images)
Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport praised Luka Modrić’s masterclass in Milan’s 1-0 win over Roma, calling his performance a “feast of football” despite tight marking from Bryan Cristante.
AC Milan defeated Roma 1-0 in a fiercely contested Serie A derby at San Siro, with Strahinja Pavlović scoring the decisive goal in the 39th minute. The match was packed with drama, as Luka Modrić orchestrated Milan’s play in midfield and Mike Maignan denied Paulo Dybala from the penalty spot to secure all three points for the Rossoneri.
Gazzetta dello Sport described the 39-year-old Croatian’s display as a “feast of the Croatian maestro”, praising his composure, control, and vision even under relentless pressure. Roma’s Bryan Cristante was tasked with shadowing Modrić throughout the night, but the veteran playmaker still dictated the rhythm of Milan’s attack.
The Italian paper wrote: “Bryan Cristante had an obvious task — to stick to Modrić’s shorts and cut off his passing lanes. How did it go? Well, so-so. Modrić still played his usual feast of touching the ball, even if he had less time to think than in previous matches.”
Maignan’s late heroics proved crucial, as he saved Dybala’s penalty in the dying minutes to preserve Milan’s victory and keep them in the race for top spot. The French goalkeeper received glowing praise alongside Pavlović, who was named man of the match by *Gazzetta*, while Rafael Leão and Alexis Saelemaekers also impressed.
With this win, Milan continued their strong form under Stefano Pioli, while Modrić’s enduring brilliance once again reminded fans why he remains one of the most elegant and influential midfielders in world football.