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Pioli credits key Milan quality after penalty win against Torino

Pioli, Torino
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A 5-4 penalty win against Torino in the Coppa Italia did not stop Milan boss Stefano Pioli from hailing his side’s performance.

Stefano Pioli praises Milan for ‘always thinking positive’ in their Coppa Italia clash with Torino, which was decided 5-4 on penalties.

Although the Rossoneri beat Torino 2-0 on Saturday in Serie A, they were unable to find a breakthrough after 120 minutes at San Siro.

On a night where Zlatan Ibrahimovic made his first start for Milan since November 22, the big Swede was unable to inspire his side to victory in regular time.

Pioli watched his side miss a series of late chances before the game was forced to extra time and then penalties. All the spot-kicks were converted except for Tomas Rincon, whose effort was parried by Tatarusanu to see Milan advance to the next round.

“I can’t help but be satisfied with the performance, as it was the fourth game in nine days, yet we never lacked spirit or intensity,” Pioli told Milan TV after the game.

“It’s a pity we didn’t win it in the 90 minutes but we showed quality anyway, because it’s not easy to convert five out of five penalties.:

“We believe in our qualities. We always think positive during games and remain concentrated. That is what’s paying off, because games are difficult and complicated, so you need that belief.”

Milan will face the winner between Inter or Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia quarter-final.

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