Sassuolo 1-2 Milan: Player Ratings as Rossoneri Extend Lead at Serie A Summit

Milan consolidated their place at the top of Serie A for another week with a 2-1 victory over Sassuolo, thanks to the quickest goal in Serie A history.

Rafael Leao broke the deadlock inside seven seconds, as Hakan Calhanoglu carved the defence open with one pass and the Portuguese forward slotted home from just inside the penalty area.

I Rossoneri doubled their advantage just before the half-hour mark, thanks to Theo Hernandez's lung-busting run from his own half, then picking out Alexis Saelemaekers at the far post to tap into an unguarded net.

Milan controlled the game, allowing Sassuolo to attack while doing their defensive duties impressively. The hosts were given a glimmer of hope in the dying minutes, when Domenico Berardi's deflected free-kick wrong-footed Gianluigi Donnarumma.

But I Rossoneri held on to secure a huge three points, maintaining their place at the Serie A summit.

Let's check out the Milan player ratings after another winning performance from Stefano Pioli's side.

MILAN

1. Goalkeeper & Defenders

Gianluigi Donnarumma (GK) - 7/10 - Called into action as Sassuolo pushed to get back into the game, keeping out Traore comfortably. No chance with the free-kick. A young yet experienced head in the backline.

Davide Calabria (RB) - 7/10 - Competent in the tackle and constantly looked to support teammates on the attack. Gave Djuricic a tough afternoon on that flank.

Pierre Kalulu (CB) - 8/10 - What a performance from the youngster! Thrown in at the deep end, Kalulu repelled everything and put his body on the line countless times for I Rossoneri. A star in the making.

Alessio Romagnoli - 7/10 - The old head at just 25 in the backline, Romagnoli led by example. Stood up to the challenge of Sassuolo's fluid forwards. Gave away the free-kick which allowed Sassuolo to dream of a comeback.

Theo Hernandez (LB) - 8/10 - Rock and roll defender. Marauded down the flank, setting up the second goal with unbelievable pace and drive. One of the best in the division.

2. Midfielders

Sandro Tonali (CM) - 7/10 - Decent first half display as Milan dominated proceedings. Substituted at half-time, suggesting he may have picked up a knock in the first 45 minutes.

Franck Kessie (CM) - 8/10 - A wonderfully complete performance. Overpowered the midfield, set Milan in motion and always looked to join in with the attack. The ultimate box-to-box player.

Brahim Diaz (AM) - 7/10 - Played well in the first half, linking up with his fellow forwards and always offering an option. Less effective than his teammates and subbed after an hour.

3. Forwards

Alexis Saelemaekers (RW) - 8/10 - Offers so much trickery and pace on that right flank and added a goal to his tally with a calm finish to double the score. Another promising youngster.

Rafael Leao (ST) - 8/10 - Became the scorer of the quickest ever goal in Serie A history, striking after less than 6.2 seconds. Provided an assist which was wiped out for offside. Grown into the player Milan had always hoped.

Hakan Calhanoglu (LW) - 8/10 - Laid on the first goal by charging directly from kick off and knocking the ball into Leao. Power and poise - perfect. Had a goal of his own chalked off for offside. Pivotal to everything positive in Milan's play.

4. Substitutes

Rade Krunic (CM) - 6/10

Jens Petter Hauge (LW) - 6/10

Samu Castillejo (RW) - 6/10

Daniel Maldini (CM) - N/A