Cerofolini believes Bari ‘held their own’ against ‘phenomenal’ Milan

Bari goalkeeper Michele Cerofolini has claimed that AC Milan are ‘phenomenal’ after their Coppa Italia defeat at San Siro.

Milan avoided any kind of dramatic exit in the first game of their cup campaign, scoring a goal in each half to beat Bari 2-0. Rafael Leao got the first goal of the new season, heading in a Fikayo Tomori cross from the right flank.

Christian Pulisic then got the second goal early in the second half from a Santiago Gimenez assist. Luka Modric and Ardon Jashari came off the bench to a brilliant reception in what was a job ultimately well done.

Cerofolini was interviewed by the Biancorossi’s official website after the game and he reflected on what was a memorable night for the club albeit not the result that they were hoping for. MilanPress relayed his comments.

“We have to focus on our performance in these games, on building concepts. You go on the pitch to win, but coming here to play against Milan and putting in a performance like that… it’s not to be underestimated,” he said.

“They have players who are competing in European competitions, they’re physically more ready. When they come at you, it’s not easy to get out. Today the coach asked us to play carefree and to do what we’d done during the week to find harmony.

“Sometimes things came together, other times not. The opponent was very respectable. They have players worthy of the national team and the Champions League; they are phenomenal. Having held our own, even partially, against these players should give us a positive feeling.”