Max Allegri had said that he would try to play a strong XI as progression in the Cup was one of their priorities, and his team started to dominate from the onset. Zlatan Ibrahimovic stretched Daniele Padelli to a fine save in the 9th before Cassano and Robinho went close with vicious drives.
Padelli could do nothing to stop a Ibra shot on 19 mins as Robinho picked up a stray pass well inside the Milan half before passing it to the Swede who waltzed his way into the box before finishing superbly in top corner.
Alexander Merkel increased the hosts lead just before the 45 min mark, smashing a left footer past a hapless Padelli. There were suspicions of offside when the ball was played to Robinho, but with the ruling in favour if Milan, the Brazilian cut back for Merkal who got to his first senior goal for the Rossoneri.
With the game under complete control, Milan chose to play things slower and keep hold of the ball. Bari were restricted to a few long range shots that did nothing to trouble Flavio Roma, who made his first appearance for Milan after injuries to Marco Amelia and Christian Abbiati had ruled them out.
Milan were ruthless when they did venture forward with Merkel this time turning provider with a neat through-ball to Robinho who put it through the legs of the keeper and put the game beyond all doubt.
Bari tried to restore some parity with a few shots late on, but none were on target as Milan coasted to the quarters where they will play Sampdoria.
Play of the Day: Ibra's Goal.
Man of the Match: Alexander Merkel
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