After a fairly even game, where AC Milan Women gave everything during regular time and extra time, tired legs and a bit of pressure took the best of the rossonere in the penalty shootout and AS Roma clinched their first-ever Coppa Italia title on a 1-3 score after Vero, Tucceri Cimini and Grimshaw missed their penalties.
Here are some thoughts on this game:
AC Milan could have been more clinical:
The match was pretty much even, with both sides creating goal-scoring chances since the very first minute. Though, it’s safe to say that the rossonere had the best chances throughout the game but, unfortunately, weren’t able to convert them. Dowie and Hasegawa awkwardly had an unusual game, lacking their usual finesse on the shots.
An almost perfect night for Tucceri Cimini:
Our left-wing-back Linda Tucceri Cimini was having the game of her career, both offensively and defensively. She managed to keep AC Milan’s transfer target Linda Thomas at bay during most of the game and came close to finally score an Olympic goal in the second half, avoided by Ceasar. The sad note goes to her failing to convert from the penalty spot.
Aye aye, Captain!
Valentina Giacinti sadly did not find the net this game, however, she gave legs, heart, and soul on the pitch and set the example of a true team captain, pressing high on Roma’s field even late on extra time. After the penalty shootout, Paolo Maldini stepped into the pitch to cheer up the players and had a special talk captain-to-captain with Giacinti.
A change of formation is coming
Maurizio Ganz’s 3-5-2 got the job done this season and there is no doubt about how the players have all learned their roles in this formation, but we could see some of the tactical limitations this formation has. If AC Milan is to have another good performance next season, maybe it’s time to switch to another system, which could boost the team’s offensive game.
Use of the bench
Ganz made two substitutions during the game, and both worked out pretty well with Grimshaw and Mauri delivering good outings. However, one can wonder if had the tactician used the 3 changes he had left the outcome would be different. Next season the rossonere will be in 4 competitions (Serie A, Coppa Italia, Champions League, and Supercoppa Italiana), so, squad rotation more usage of the bench will be much needed.
No matter the outcome, we must be proud of those players as they have already made history this season. Furthermore, they brought attention to the women’s game and more fans are now avid for info about them and, obviously, cheering for their success. Fantastic job, rossonere!
Image credits: acmilan.com
