AC Milan marked the debut of their new head coach, Sergio Conceição, with a resounding 2-1 victory over Juventus during the Supercoppa Italiana semi-final held at Al-Awwal Park Stadium, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on January 4, 2025. This win not only propelled Milan to the finals, where they are set to clash against their city rivals, Inter Milan, but it also encapsulated the thrill and intensity of one of Italy's most cherished footballing rivalries.
Conceição's appointment came with high expectations. Having transitioned from Porto to Milan, he faced the unique challenge of leading his team against his son, Francisco Conceição, who plays for Juventus. This family dynamic added additional pressure on the young coach, yet he managed to remain composed during what he characterized as not just a professional duty but also deeply personal.
Initially, it seemed Juventus would steal the show. They took the lead early on, creating doubts about Milan's chances. Yet, true to their resilient spirit, Milan responded quickly. Just when the atmosphere seemed to dim for the Rossoneri, Christian Pulisic stepped up, converting a penalty after being fouled inside the area. His successful spot-kick leveled the score and reignited Milan's momentum.
Pulisic’s equalizer marked not just ambition but also determination—a turning point for Milan. Conceição, reflecting on the exceptional coaching performance displayed by the team, noted, "My eyes are watery not because I feel emotional about the match, but because I had fever lately." His candidness brought humanity to the competitive fire of the match. He also downplayed emotions concerning facing his son, stating, "I just want to beat him and make him unhappy."
The match clocked significant action post-equalizer; Milan surged forward, and within just four minutes, they found themselves leading 2-1. A defensive mistake on Juventus's part played right to the advantage of the Rossoneri, allowing them to capitalize on confusion and secure this pivotal goal.
On the other side of the pitch, Juventus coach Thiago Motta expressed his confidence in Francisco's capabilities. "He is very motivated, whether he plays from the start or off the bench," Motta asserted, encouragingly acknowledging the youthful exuberance Francis brings to the field. Yet, the pre-match nervousness surrounding familial rivalry was palpable—something both coaches had to navigate smoothly.
Conceição’s debut couldn’t have been scripted more dramatically. Not only was he able to openly compete against his son, but he did so on such grand grounds, making it clear he came prepared for challenges both within the match and against his personal life. It represented what sports can be—beyond just competition, it encapsulated the passion, heartbreak, and eventual elation inherent to football.
With this victory, AC Milan fans leave Riyadh with hope and enthusiasm for their team's future—a future now set to face Inter Milan, who previously clocked wins against other seasoned teams to reach this final stage. The city will buzz with anticipation during this Derby della Madonnina showdown as both teams vie for supremacy over Italian football.
Milan has had its ups and downs throughout this season, currently aiming to improve its position from eighth place. This victory against Juventus marks not only another notch on their belt but also sparks renewed ambition and determination amid the struggles.
Looking forward, the upcoming clash against Inter will be monumental for both clubs, as it's not just about the title but city bragging rights at stake. Fans can expect fireworks on the field as the rivalry reignites yet again. Will Sergio Conceição secure his first title as Milan’s head coach against familial ties? Only time—and the scoreboard—will tell.