Story perspectives

Kimmich, Vitinha Lead Champions League Semi with Elite Playmaking

5/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Kimmich and Vitinha each drove attacks in the Champions League semi-final first leg.
Both rank in the 99th percentile for xGChain and xGBuildup in the Champions League.
Kimmich’s high Anchor Progression Value shows he moves the game forward from deep under pressure.
Vitinha’s Anchor Progression Value shows he sustains possession and advances play steadily under pressure.
Both midfielders repeatedly create sequences that end in shots, turning control into scoring chances.

History

Historical Context

Milan’s 2003-04 Serie A triumph, driven by the midfield of Pirlo, Gattuso and Seedorf, echoed the club’s earlier resurgence after Silvio Berlusconi bought it in 1986 and built a dominant side. The trio’s possession-heavy play, which helped Milan win the title by an 11-point margin, is now mirrored by modern midfielders such as Bayern’s Joshua Kimmich and Porto’s Vitinha.

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Story summary

Kimmich and Vitinha each drove attacks in the Champions League semi-final first leg.
Both rank in the 99th percentile for xGChain and xGBuildup in the Champions League.
Kimmich’s high Anchor Progression Value shows he moves the game forward from deep under pressure.
Vitinha’s Anchor Progression Value shows he sustains possession and advances play steadily under pressure.
Both midfielders repeatedly create sequences that end in shots, turning control into scoring chances.

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