AC Milan starlet Alexandre Pato was left fuming after having a late winner over Real Madrid ruled out.

Milan had fallen behind to a Karim Benzema goal at the San Siro but fought back to equalise through a Ronaldinho penalty before Pato scored what he thought was the clincher - only to have the goal disallowed for an alleged foul.

Speaking to Sky in a post-match interview the young Brazilian commented "I was very happy after scoring, because I was convinced that I had scored a legitimate goal.

"It happens though, but I did not control the ball with my hand, but rather my shoulder. I desperately wanted to score tonight, and to win, and I did that, but the referee cancelled out a perfectly good goal.

"I'm still happy with the result, because it keeps us in a very good position in the standings.

"These matches are always special, and so it's a shame about the referee's decision to disallow my goal, but we must put that and this game behind us now, and look ahead."

Pato's Brazilian compatriot Roanldinho also continued his recent good form - despatching the penalty with aplomb and looking more like the player who was crowned FIFA Footballer of the Year twice in succession.

Asked to comment on his team-mate Pato declared  "Ronaldinho? He is a great player, and he will always be important for this team. I am very happy for his goal, as it was crucial for us."

The draw moved Milan top of Group C alongside the Spanish giants - but with just four points separating all four sides there is still everything to play for.