Clarence Seedorf put the home side ahead after five minutes, but the Sardinians overturned the one-goal deficit in an eventful first half.

Cagliari's Alessandro Matri and Andrea Lazzari capitalized on defensive lapses to score on nine and 30 minutes respectively, but Marco Borriello brought the score level on 38 with a nice header.

Milan star Alexandre Pato restored his side's slender lead five minutes from halftime after he was set up by Brazilian playmaker Ronaldinho.

In a less exciting second half, Ronaldinho converted a penalty kick two minutes past the hour mark to ensure the Rossoneri's lead.

Nene pulled one back for Cagliari on 69 minutes, but the visitors couldn't level the score once again.

Milan, who had an abysmal start to the season, are now in second place with 25 points, seven behind leaders and defending champions Inter Milan.

Cagliari are eighth on eight point.