WATCH: Luka Modric scores first goal for AC Milan, makes history with match-winner
Luka Modric nets his first AC Milan goal, helping the Rossoneri seal a 1-0 triumph over Bologna. The Croatian star also became one of Serie A's oldest scorers in history.
New Delhi: Luka Modric continued to defy age as he scored just days after his 40th birthday to give AC Milan a 1-0 victory over Bologna in Serie A. With that strike, the Croatian striker became the sixth player in Serie A history to score after turning 40, joining the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Fabio Quagliarella.
Modric celebrated his milestone birthday on Tuesday, and after the match, with a laugh he joked, "I hope someone next time will not remind me of my age anymore,” highlighting his remarkable longevity and fitness at the top level.
Even he became the oldest midfielder to score a goal in the history of the league as he surpassed the record set by Nils Liedholm who scored against Inter in 1961 while playing for Rossoneri.
Milan was struggling to break Bologna down in the first half despite Pervis Estupinan hitting the post. The breakthrough moment of the match came in the 61st minute when former Madrid star started a move deep in his own half, linking with Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who played the ball to Alexis Saelemaekers. Saelemaekers cut inside and squared it perfectly for Modric to drive the ball into the net from close range.
Bologna nearly equalised late on with Samuele Ricci hitting the post after coming off the bench and Santiago Gimenez also striking the woodwork. But Milan held on for the win.
The match wasn't without drama as Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri was sent off late in the game for dissent following a penalty decision that was overturned after VAR review. In a flashback of his Juventus days, Allegri furiously threw off his jacket and sarcastically applauded the officials while being escorted off.
However, Allegri praised the veteran after the final whistle. He said, "Luka is an extraordinary player and it’s a pleasure to watch him. He is also a really humble guy, and that shows what a great champion he is. He knows a minute before where the ball will go and has extraordinary technique.”
What's next for Milan
Modric’s match-winning contribution reinforced his enduring quality and importance to Milan as they aim for success this season. The Croatian midfielder continues to be a vital figure in Allegri’s plans, showing that age has not diminished his influence on the pitch.
This win marked AC Milan's second victory in their opening three fixtures under Massimiliano Allegri, marking their best start in five seasons across in their managers two tenures. The Rossoneri will next play Udinese in an away fixture on Sunday, hoping to build on the momentum and continue their strong start to the campaign.