OKAFOR IS THE MVP FROM LAZIO v AC MILAN

How lucky we are to have him: if you write Noah Okafor then you read problem solver. He is the wild card in the pack, the striker who scores big goals in the biggest moments. The Swiss player appears in the most delicate, and often nervous moments, to break a stalemate. At the Olimpico was yet another example, remembering also his opener in Cagliari, the assist for Chukwueze in Newcastle and the winner in Udine. When he is needed, when it counts, Okafor is a machine, dishing out sentences and highlighting a talent to strike late and away from San Siro.

After bagging against Lazio in the reverse game, Noah did the damage again by scoring an 88th-minute winner in what was a strange and tricky, but crucial, match. Having two attempts at it, the second crossed the line past Provedel to provide screams of joy in taking home the three points at stake. In less than half an hour, he made the difference (1-0) and thoroughly deserves the man of the match award as voted by the AC Milan fans on the AC Milan Official App, with 60% of the vote surpassing Pulisic, Gabbia and Reijnders.

It's the number 17's fifth goal of the season, with some impressive statistics to come out of the game: no player has scored more goals in the league than Okafor as a sub (four, like L. Martínez and Jović); and among the players to have scored at least five goals in this season's Serie A campaign, Noah has played the least number of minutes (509 on the pitch). With nine balls at his disposal, two hit the target in the move that led to the goal, earning him top marks within the team and the right-footed volley after the rebound killed off the opposition.

When you say seize the opportunity: nasty and decisive, a lethal weapon for the Rossoneri throughout the season. "He works hard, he is always ready. He deserves the goal, the stage and the evening", said Coach Pioli. The hope is to have him back again and soon for the rest of the season. It is certain that we have a very strong player - perfectly integrated into the group, positive and patient - capable of saving the team's bacon. Keep calm and... Noah Okafor.

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