The Brazilian, who moved to Italy from Barcelona in the summer, came off the bench to score deep in stoppage time and hand the Rossoneri a 1-0 triumph against the Portuguese side at the San Siro.

The result saw Milan retain top spot in Group E, three points clear of Wolfsburg and Braga.

"It was a difficult game," admitted Ronaldinho. "Sporting had not conceded a goal in seven European games and we knew it was going to be a challenging encounter.

"I am delighted to have contributed to this success.

"Every day that goes by I feel more at home in Milan. This is my new home and I feel very good here."

Thursday´s result was Milan´s 11th victory in a row in all competitions.

Ronaldinho also struck the winner in last Sunday´s 1-0 triumph over Napoli as the Rossoneri climbed to the top of the Serie A standings for the first time in four years.

"We really deserve these results," Ronaldinho added. "We are working very hard and in a serious manner."

It was an equally satisfying night for Serie A high-flyers Udinese, who won 2-1 at Spartak Moscow courtesy of Fabio Quagliarella's brace.

The win followed their 2-0 triumph against Tottenham in their Group D opener two weeks ago.

"This result is very important because it allows us to go into our next UEFA Cup games more at ease," said Udinese coach Pasquale Marino.

"I am very satisfied with the good performance given by my team against a very strong side."