The most unexpected starter that became the deciding factor and is rewarded with being voted as the best player on the pitch. Marco Sportiello's evening in Turin was anything but boring. Called in during the warm-up at the last minute due to an injury to Mike Maignan, the goalkeeper from Lombardy put in a magnificent performance to receive the MVP in Juventus v AC Milan.
The Rossoneri fans had no doubts at all in voting for Marco, in what was a landslide, winning with over 70% of the vote on the AC Milan Official App ahead of another strong performer in the game at the Allianz Stadium, Malick Thiaw (Rafa Leão completing the podium). Therefore, Sportiello deservedly takes home his first award as the star man wearing the Rossoneri jersey.
Straight into the thick of the action in the 7th minute from Vlahović's effort, Marco's performance grew as the minutes passed by. There were three moments in particular that highlighted his evening's work: at the end of the first half, he got down low to keep out Vlahović's free-kick; immediately after the restart with a double save from Kostić and Danilo; and finally, with another save low down from Milik.
Four important and decisive stops by Sportiello, who also stood out for his twelve successful balls forward and 13 ball recoveries; a clean sheet can be added to that despite seven shots on target faced by the Rossoneri. This is the highest number, in a game that has ended goalless, since May 2013. Well done, Marco!
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