Masimiliano Allegri won the clash between the Serie’s two most photogenic managers. AC MIlan looked very comfortable in their 3-0 win. Leonardo had to finish empty handed in his return to his former club. Alexandre Pato scored two goals and Antonio Cassano got the third through a penalty.
The former Sampdoria striker promptly celebrated by taking off his jersey which resulted in a booking. With the result a foregone conclusion it was now a matter of conjecture whether Cassano would be able to play out the rest of the match. Luckily he did not disappoint as he pulled down Andrea Rannochia in a bone headed foul and was given his marching orders.
Earlier in the second half Christian Chivu was sent off after impeding appeared Pato as the last defender in his course towards goal. The fiercely struck free kick taken by Thiago Motta was saved by Julio Cesar. Inter had their chances with Abbiati managing to save Rannochia’s header off the goal line. Samuel Eto’o missed an absolute sitter but otherwise was largely out of position on the left.
The other fascinating contest was between Brazilian mates Robinho and Julio Cesar which the goalkeeper won after stopping the former for the fourth time. After yet another save, Robinho congratulates Cesar.
With this win Milan moves five points clear of Inter who are in third. Napoli who beat Lazio in a thriller moved to second. Udinese maintained fourth even as they lost to Lecce.