'Wonderful' Luka Modric 'one minute' ahead of the rest as AC Milan coach praises veteran midfielder's first Serie A goal

In a match where Milan kept a perfect defensive record by not allowing Bologna a single shot on target, Modric’s solitary goal made all the difference. Starting a counterattack from deep inside Milan’s half in the 60th minute, Modric surged into Bologna’s penalty area to meet Alexis Saelemaekers's perfectly-timed pass with a calm finish to the goalkeeper’s right.

Allegri was pleased with Modric's performance and heaped praise on him afterwards, telling reporters: "Luka is an extraordinary player, it's a pleasure to watch him play, and above all, he's a truly humble guy, just like the champion he is. He's wonderful, he knows where the ball is going one minute before, and then he's extraordinary."

Allegri was also pleased with the team effort from the players, saying: "It was important to win at home without conceding a goal. In difficult moments, the team remained united: in those moments, it's important not to disintegrate and let them pass."

In a controversial moment late in the game, on-field referee Matteo Marcenaro initially awarded a penalty after Bologna midfielder Remo Freuler was judged to have fouled Christian Nkunku in the box. However, the decision was overturned due to insufficient contact following a VAR review. The decision sparked the ire of Allegri, who was sent off for dissent.

Allegri downplayed the incident later, adding: "Nothing special, there was the penalty incident and at that moment I had something to say to the fourth official and luckily the jacket saved me."

Despite starting the campaign with a loss to Cremonese at home, Allegri will be happy to have two wins in two games. He will hope that Modric will be able to reproduce his form from Bologna when Milan will travel next to Stadio Friuli to take on Udinese.