Several surging runs by Brazilian midfielder Kaka proved fruitless as Milan slowly imposed themselves, before Dida's hands came to the rescue again, palming Juan Sebastian Veron's free-kick away for a corner.
Cruz was denied by Dida for a second time before Stam struck with a rare goal.
Pirlo swung over a free-kick from the right and the giant Dutchman leapt highest to plant a firm downward header.
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