Ronaldinho leads AC Milan past Udinese

The Ronaldinho drama with the Brazilian national team didn't slow the star down at all as he led AC Milan to a 3-2 victory over Udinese.  Ronaldinho looked to be sending a message to Brazilian National Team Coach Dunga as he carved up the Udinese midfield leading one dangerous attack after another on the night.  He had a hand in all three of the AC Milan goals.  Ronaldinho was left out of the Brazil squad for a March international against Ireland.

First half goals from Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Pato looked to have AC Milan in for a comfortable night leading 2-0, but Udinese would not give in as Antonio Floro Flores provided hope just before halftime.   Klaas-Jan Huntelaar restored the two goal lead in the 57th minute and once again AC Milan had a stranglehold on the match.

David Beckham replaced Ronaldinho to a standing ovation with 15 minutes to play.  Beckham was supposed to come in and kill off the game with his quality passing.  Instead he gave away several balls and Udinese pulled within 3-2 in the 86th minute behind Antonio Di Natale.  A few nerve wracking minute remained, but Udinese could not find the equalizer.

The win moves AC Milan over Roma and into 2nd place in Serie A play.  AC Milan will begin quarterfinal play in the Champions League Tuesday as they welcome Manchester United to Italy for the opening leg in what should be a scintilating matchup.