5 things about AC Milan's comeback win over Parma

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

1. Cutrone playing beyond his years

It's hard to believe Patrick Cutrone is only 20 years old. He has the energy and hunger of an academy graduate and the instinct of a veteran striker. Even before Gonzalo Higuain arrived, Cutrone showed he's capable of doing all the things a modern center-forward is asked to do. He took another step forward Sunday against Parma, scoring the equalizer before forcing a penalty. His goal was a tour-de-force: Cutrone won possession as Parma dallied on the ball, set up a quick one-two, and hooked an over-the-shoulder volley into the corner. It was a combination of grit, determination, and execution. He's established himself in the team as an all-out grafter, making touches in his own penalty area before popping up at the opposite end.

2. Bakayoko finds success in simplicity

Waves of criticism clearly had no effect on Tiemoue Bakayoko, who continued to prove his doubters wrong Sunday. The much-maligned 24-year-old has found his equilibrium in the center of midfield, showing poise on the ball and the awareness to break up play. He's doing the little things right: the forward passes, the quick turns, the short, bursting runs through the middle. He's kept himself from doing too much, allowing midfield partner Franck Kessie the license to roam while holding down the fort. Bakayoko made a team-high four tackles and four clearances against Parma and hardly looked out of place.

3. Gattuso handling injury crisis well

Milan manager Gennaro Gattuso has put faith in the few players he has available and changed the lineup to mitigate the effects of a recent spate of injuries. The decision to field right-back Ignazio Abate in the center of defense likely caused palpitations, but the ensuing performance vindicated the boss. Abate showed remarkable restraint in the middle of the back-four and often used his speed to win possession. Gattuso has made his share of mistakes this season - notably the timing of his substitutions - but he's humble enough to work hard and find solutions.

4. Milan love comebacks and close games

The Rossoneri have now fought back from a goal down in each of their last two matches. It's disappointing they found themselves in a bind at home against Dudelange and Parma, but they at least showed the willingness to get back into games. Cutrone's equalizer came just six minutes after Roberto Inglese's go-ahead goal, and while Milan should have had the lead to begin with, it's important to see the team overcome adversity. It just can't happen every week.

5. Counterattacks still need work

Milan could have killed the match much earlier had they converted one of several opportunities on the counterattack. Kessie has a tendency to lose the ball and misplace touches when he's in the ascendency, and sometimes his teammates pick the wrong pass. Milan were clearly tiring in the final 20 minutes of regular time, but a little more clarity of thought would help this team.