Massimiliano Allegri has hailed his side for denying Barcelona the "big occasion" of beating Milan.
Milan boss hails defensive display in denying dominant Barca
Massimiliano Allegri has hailed his side for denying Barcelona the "big occasion" of beating Milan in the UEFA Champions League.
Holders Barcelona had over 75 per cent of possession against the seven-time tournament winners, but were denied what looked a certain win by an injury-time equaliser in a 2-2 draw.
Milan's resilient defence, led by veteran Alessandro Nesta, restricted Barcelona by forcing the Spaniards away from goal and the Italians relied on Thiago Silva's late header to steal a point against the run of play.
And Allegri told
Sky Italia: "We have not allowed them the big occasion, we have played a good defensive phase. My team have been able to keep the match in the balance after going 2-1 down.
"I think my side have done good things especially at the beginning. Then we had problems.
"I would have never thought of such a draw at Camp Nou but in the end, my players have been rewarded."
Equaliser
Milan had taken a first-minute lead through Alexandre Pato but Pedro and David Villa turned the score in Barcelona's favour by the 50th minute.
Despite looking comfortable, set-pieces posed Barcelona their biggest threat throughout and they were left to rue conceding an injury-time corner as Clarence Seedorf delivered for Silva to head home.
The Brazilian claims the Serie A champions worked on the set-piece in training prior to visiting the European champions, and warned against complacency having secured a point in their most difficult game in Group H.
He said: "I was a little nervous but we have worked a lot on corners at Milan and at the end we have got an important goal.
"It's important keeping the mind tranquil, the Champions League has just started - let's hope to continue this way."
