Tonight, the Coppa Italia semi-finals feature a highly anticipated Derby della Madonnina as AC Milan host Inter Milan at San Siro. This fixture holds significant importance for both clubs, with Inter aiming to maintain their dominance and Milan seeking redemption in a challenging season.
AC Milan's 2024-2025 campaign has been underwhelming, currently positioned ninth in Serie A with 47 points, a substantial 20 points behind league leaders Inter Milan. Their recent form includes four losses in their last six matches, reflecting inconsistency. Despite these struggles, manager Sérgio Conceição views the Coppa Italia as a vital opportunity to secure European competition for the next season. Notably, Milan has had success against Inter this season, winning two of their three encounters, including a victory in the Supercoppa Italiana. In terms of squad news, Milan faces several injury concerns. Midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek recently underwent emergency surgery for appendicitis and will be unavailable for selection. Additionally, defender Alessandro Florenzi is recovering from a severe knee injury sustained earlier in the season. These absences may impact Milan's lineup and tactical approach.
Inter Milan, conversely, are enjoying a successful season, leading Serie A and boasting a five-match winning streak. Under coach Simone Inzaghi, Inter has demonstrated consistency and resilience. However, Inzaghi remains cautious ahead of the derby, acknowledging Milan's capability to challenge any team, as evidenced by their previous victories over Inter this season. Inter's squad is relatively healthy, with key players available for selection. Forward Lautaro Martinez has been in exceptional form, contributing significantly to Inter's attacking prowess. The team's defensive solidity and midfield control have been instrumental in their recent successes.
The Derby della Madonnina is always a fiercely contested fixture, with form often proving secondary to the intensity of the rivalry. AC Milan's determination to salvage their season through Coppa Italia success adds an extra layer of motivation. However, their injury concerns and inconsistent form present challenges. Inter Milan's current momentum and league dominance position them as favorites. Their balanced squad, combined with tactical discipline under Inzaghi, provides a solid foundation. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Inter's control potentially dictating the tempo of the game. Considering current dynamics, Inter Milan appears poised to secure a victory in this first leg of the semi-final. However, the unpredictable nature of derby matches means AC Milan cannot be entirely discounted, especially given their previous successes against Inter this season.
