The Coppa Italia semi-final clash between AC Milan and Inter Milan ended in a thrilling 1-1 draw at the iconic San Siro on April 2, 2025. The match showcased the fierce rivalry between the two Milanese clubs, as both sides fought hard for a place in the final.
The game started with a tense atmosphere, and it was Milan who drew first blood just two minutes into the second half. Tammy Abraham, who had been a constant threat throughout the match, capitalized on a defensive lapse by Inter and struck a low shot that found the back of the net, putting Milan ahead 1-0. The goal came after a well-worked move, where Abraham displayed his striking prowess by turning and shooting past Inter goalkeeper Andre Onana.
However, the lead was short-lived. Inter responded with determination, and in the 67th minute, Hakan Calhanoglu, a former Milan player, equalized with a sensational strike from outside the penalty area. The Turkish midfielder unleashed a powerful shot that rocketed past Milan's goalkeeper Mike Maignan, leveling the score at 1-1. The goal was a testament to Calhanoglu's quality and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations, as he celebrated with his teammates in front of the traveling Inter fans.
Throughout the match, both teams created several opportunities, but it was the defenses that often came out on top. Milan's defense, marshaled by Theo Hernandez and Gabbia, held firm against Inter's attacking threats, while Inter's backline, led by Stefan de Vrij, was equally resilient. Despite some close calls, neither side could find the decisive goal to claim victory.
In terms of statistics, Inter continued their remarkable streak, having now scored in 15 consecutive derbies against Milan. This record highlights Inter's dominance in recent encounters, but Milan will be looking to turn the tide in the second leg of the semi-final.
The match was not without its moments of controversy, as both teams had claims for penalties that were waved away by the referee. VAR was also consulted on a couple of occasions, but no major incidents were deemed worthy of intervention. The referee, Michael Fabbri, had a challenging task in managing the intensity of the game, with several yellow cards handed out to players from both sides.
As the match drew to a close, both teams seemed content with the draw, knowing that they would have another opportunity to settle the tie in three weeks' time. The second leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final is set to take place on April 23, 2025, where both teams will be eager to secure their place in the final.
Looking ahead, the coaches of both teams, Sergio Conceiçao for Milan and Simone Inzaghi for Inter, will have crucial decisions to make regarding their lineups and strategies for the upcoming clash. With the stakes higher than ever, fans can expect another thrilling encounter as the two Milanese giants vie for supremacy.
Calhanoglu, who was named Player of the Match, expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, stating, "It was important not to lose, but we cannot concede a goal like that." His words reflect the competitive spirit that defines this rivalry.
For now, the Coppa Italia remains tantalizingly poised, with both teams having everything to play for in the return leg. The battle for Milan's bragging rights continues, and fans will be eagerly awaiting what promises to be another unforgettable chapter in this storied rivalry.
