Boca Lose To Clinical Milan

Álvaro González was nowhere to be seen on on the pitch at Yokohama Stadium. His moment in the sun appeared to have occurred somewhere in Alaska because he was subbed in the 67th minute for Leandro Gracián in Milan’s 4-2 win over the Xeneizes.

Milan were cold and clinical in their execution and were able to counter a Boca side that attacked more and had the European champs in the ropes. Milan were able to change on the fly and open up Kaká and Clarence Seedorf exposing their young central defenders in the process.

But the biggest addition to the Milan side was that of Filippo Inzaghi. Super Pippo replaced a out of form Alberto Gilardino and the Italian poacher did what he always does in big games- score. If a parent wants to teach a child how to play up front without the ball, I personally suggest that you show them Inzaghi’s videos. On both occasions he was able to find space and beat both Paletta and Maidana on both occasions.

Inzaghi was the leading scorer of the tournament for Milan, but Kaká was the man. In addition to scoring the eventual game-winner from a tight angle, he found Inzaghi all by himself to make it 4-1 in the 71st minute. Kaká was a Ferrari among Mustangs. The Brazilian looked sleek, almost effortless in his movement. If there was one example to that play it was an effort close to the end of the match where he started a string of seven straight passes that saw him on the other end taking a shot on goal. It would have culminated his FIFA Player of the Year reel if he would have scored, but Mauricio Caranta stopped him.

With this win, Milan earned their fourth title in this tournament and their 18th at the international level, making them the kings of the world.