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5 things about AC Milan's testy win over Bologna

Emilio Andreoli / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Welcome to the 5 Things recap by theScore's Anthony Lopopolo, which highlights AC Milan's performances over the 2018-19 season. Here's a breakdown of Milan's 2-1 win over Bologna.

Suso back on the scoresheet

After weeks of indifferent play, Suso finally made a difference. He hadn't scored since January and it looked like he wouldn't score again this season. But Suso tried something different, creating space for himself in the middle of the pitch while holding off two defenders. He showed rare strength on the ball to put himself in a position to score. That's what a match-winner like Suso is supposed to do. If only he could do it on a regular basis.

Bakayoko goes after Gattuso

Tiemoue Bakayoko appeared to tell Gennaro Gattuso to "f--- off" during Monday's match, sparking a media maelstrom in Italy. The Frenchman said he only repeated the words Gattuso said to him. Who knows what actually happened. We do know that Bakayoko openly undermined and challenged his manager in the middle of an important game. That can't happen. Gattuso was looking to replace the injured Lucas Biglia as quickly as possible, and it didn't seem like Bakayoko was ready to play. Days after turning up an hour-and-a-half late to training, Bakayoko continued to be a distraction. The under-used Jose Mauri ended up relieving Biglia and delivered a commendable performance.

Abate leads by example

Ignazio Abate put in another hard-working shift, showing the desire to win at all costs. It wasn't always pretty, but the longtime Milan defender covered his assignments and played with gusto. He kept Bologna winger Nicola Sansone at bay and flew up and down the right side of the pitch. With his contract set to expire, Abate has made a very good argument for a renewal.

Paqueta gets too nervous

Lucas Paqueta had a good game until his sending-off. He found teammates in open spots, and it was his shot that led to Fabio Borini's game-winning goal. But he lost it toward the end, earning two yellow cards in quick succession in a totally avoidable incident. There was no need to push the referee away - even if match official Marco Di Bello was a little too close for comfort. The Brazilian is just the latest Milan player to have an emotional meltdown. This team has struggled with nerves all season, and that's one of the reasons it's trailing Atalanta for the final Champions League spot.

Donnarumma comes up big ... again

Gianluigi Donnarumma has saved Milan on several occasions this season. Add this one to the list. Donnarumma made at least four vital saves to keep Milan in the match. Some of the most important came midway through the first half, when Bologna attempted to wrest control of the game. He had some nail-biting moments on the ball, but mainly because his teammates didn't make themselves available. Donnarumma may end the year as Milan's player of the season.

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