AC Milan has emerged victorious with a thrilling 3-2 win over Inter Milan to capture the Supercoppa Italiana, claiming the trophy for the first time since 2016. This match, held on January 6, 2025, at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh, is notable not only for the competitive rivalry demonstrated but also for Milan's impressive resilience.
Managed by Sérgio Conceição, the Rossoneri showcased their determination after trailing 2-0 early in the second half. Lautaro Martínez and Mehdi Taremi had put Inter Milan in command, making it seem like Inter was on course for their fourth consecutive Supercoppa win. The game took a pivotal turn when Theo Hernández marked his entry with a stunning direct free-kick goal, igniting Milan's comeback.
Hernández’s equalizer was followed by Christian Pulisic scoring the second goal after receiving a precise assist from Hernández, marking Pulisic's 10th goal of the season. The American made history as the first American player to score 10 goals across consecutive seasons in the top five European leagues since Clint Dempsey. The climax came during stoppage time when Tammy Abraham, another substitute, netted the winning goal, sealing Milan's triumph.
Inter Milan's coach, Simone Inzaghi, reflected on the painful defeat, stating, "It burns, but this team will recover as it has done over the last three and a half years." His sentiments highlight the disappointment felt across the Inter camp, particularly as they had led the match early on.
Despite the loss, the Nerazzurri's President Beppe Marotta acknowledged the competitive spirit displayed by both teams. He stressed the need for Inter to regroup as they move forward from this challenging match. "We have to congratulate Milan, who never gave up," said Marotta, noting how the loss will serve as motivation moving forward.
On the other side, AC Milan’s victory is significant as it marks their eighth Supercoppa win, putting them level with Inter Milan, with only Juventus boasting more titles at nine. Manager Sérgio Conceição expressed his pride, stating, "Winning the Supercoppa again is huge for us and our fans." This victory could symbolize the start of renewed success for the Rossoneri as they look to build on their recent performances.
This triumph would not have been possible without the strategic gameplay from both Hernández and Pulisic, who have become instrumental figures for Milan this season. The Milan supporters celebrated this hard-fought victory, appreciating the remarkable turnaround from their team, which had previously struggled against their arch-rivals.
The match not only emphasizes the intensity of the Milan derby but also sets the tone for the rest of the season. Inter Milan faces the challenge of bouncing back after two consecutive defeats to their city rivals, having also lost to Milan earlier this season. Meanwhile, Milan can relish this moment as they continue their campaign with renewed vigor and confidence.
Fans and analysts alike are set to reflect on this encounter as one of the great clashes between these historical rivals, symbolizing the unpredictable nature of football where fortunes can shift dramatically. The rivalry continues, and both clubs are poised to build on their success or to recover from disappointment as they battle for supremacy.
This year's Supercoppa Italiana final serves as yet another thrilling chapter woven through the storied history of Italian football, amplifying the passion, drama, and competitive fervor associated with the Milan derby.