A Dream Start
Winning the derby is already a great thing in itself. Doing it with a series of stunning goals and without really risking a comeback makes it all even more splendid.
The start of the match is simply sensational for the rossoneri. In the opening minutes, Milan keeps a firm hold on possession and, at the first opportunity, takes the lead through Pulisic. As if that weren’t enough, just a few minutes later, from their very first corner of the game, the rossoneri find a lightning-fast double with a soft touch from Rabiot. In both cases, the decisive assist comes from Moreira, who, thanks to his powerful runs across the entire pitch, immediately establishes himself as the Man of the Match.
Inter Try to Fight Back
After this blazing start, the match settles into a good rhythm. Inter try to exploit vertical passes and wide exchanges to get their crosses in. That’s how they earn the corner that leads to 2-1 midway through the first half. As the minutes pass, the nerazzurri begin to take a firm hold on possession. Milan fade increasingly, unable to build attacks or get close to the opponent’s penalty area. Inter start pressing and accumulating chances, most notably with Spence forcing Maignan into a superb save from close range.
Moreira’s Masterpiece: A Spectacular 3-1
After that episode, the pace drops again. But this rollercoaster first half has one last shocking moment to offer. From a free-kick, Moreira pulls a spectacular 3-1 out of the hat, crowning a magnificent first half performance from the Belgian. The first half ends in chaotic fashion, with momentum swings back and forth and both teams having moments of dominance and suffering.
A Controlled Second Half
The second half appears decidedly more ordinary. Generally it is Inter who push and keep possession, but without creating any notable chances. Milan raise their heads when they can, but mostly settle for containing the opposition without taking too many risks. This script plays out for most of the second half, which compared to the first 45 minutes feels almost dull. Inter frequently get the ball into the box, but between harmless crosses and a lack of precision when shooting, they never truly threaten the Milan backline. More sloppiness from Inter, but also solid concentration from the Milan defenders.
Conclusion: What a Rossoneri Night!
And so a stunning Derby draws to a close, with an excellent Milan showing great quality and ruthlessness in the first half, and composure in the second. The satisfaction is immense, but in terms of the standings this was just another game. It will be up to Milan to draw from this result the energy needed to lift their heads. Because in the end, when you win the derby, it’s always a wonderful evening.
