AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has hailed his midfield pair Kaka and Andrea Pirlo after this week's victory over Benfica.

"Pirlo got a goal and an assist and the way he dictated the plat was incredible," Ancelotti said.

Kaka and Pirlo may be working well together, but they are set to compete for this year's Ballon d'Or award.

"I don't mind who wins the Golden Ball, but I think Kaka has an advantage because of the goals he scored in last term's Champions League," Ancelotti continued.

"But Pirlo deserves to be a candidate. I don't see many midfielders out there at his level. Hopefully we'll get first and second."