The highly awaited clash between Inter Milan and AC Milan is set to captivate football fans as the two rivals meet for the Supercoppa Italiana title on January 6, 2025, at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This match marks another chapter in the long-standing rivalry known as the Milan derby, but it carries additional significance with Inter aiming for their fourth consecutive Supercoppa win, pursuing history, and AC Milan seeking fresh glory under the leadership of their new coach, Sergio Conceicao.
The match will kick off at 7 PM UK time, with no extra time; should the teams remain level after 90 minutes, it will head straight to penalties. It’s primed to be a thrilling encounter as both teams are pumped to showcase their skills on such a prestigious stage.
For Inter Milan, the stakes could not be higher. The Nerazzurri are on the verge of making history, attempting to become the first club ever to clinch the Supercoppa four times consecutively. Meanwhile, AC Milan rejoices in their recent victory under new management, having turned around their fortunes with a dramatic comeback against Juventus last time out, overcoming a two-goal deficit to win 3-2. Such momentum could play a pivotal role as they step onto the pitch against their traditional rivals.
This year’s Supercoppa Italiana has brought together four clubs: the winners and runners-up of Serie A and Coppa Italia from the previous season, all culminating in this highly anticipated final. Earlier, Inter secured their spot by defeating Atalanta 2-0, with Dutch international Denzel Dumfries impressing by scoring both goals. AC Milan advanced after edging past Juventus 2-1, featuring standout performances from Christian Pulisic, who found the back of the net and contributed significantly to the team's efforts.
The venue, Al-Awwal Park, is more than 4,000 miles from the clubs’ home ground at San Siro, underlining the increasing drive to promote Serie A to international audiences. Since the Supercoppa Italiana first ventured outside of Italy, it has taken place across several regions, including China and Doha. Riyadh is gearing up to host its sixth Supercoppa final, and the Saudi Arabian initiative to bolster sports tourism aligns with this growing trend.
While Inter cannot count on every player, they will miss key figures like Benjamin Pavard and Francesco Acerbi due to injury, alongside Marcus Thuram, who has sustained a muscle injury. On the AC Milan side, they, too, face challenges with absentees like Alessandro Florenzi and Samuel Chukwueze, though there is hope for the return of star winger Rafael Leao, who may be fit enough for the bench after recovering from injury.
With prize money amounting to €16.2 million, the stakes go beyond just glory. This lucrative incentive is larger than what any other top European leagues provide for their equivalent competitions, enhancing the competitive drive between the clubs.
Fans and viewers eager to catch the action will find the game broadcasted on Premier Sports, starting its coverage at 6:55 PM on Premier Sports 1. For those unable to watch it on television, streaming options will also be available through the channel's website, with subscriptions starting at £10.99.
With both clubs exhibiting their talents and hunger, the Supercoppa Italiana final promises to be nothing short of breathtaking. The iconic rivalry reignited, where tactics and teamwork will be put to the test, culminating not just with the ringing of the final whistle but with the echoing glory of the champions.
Fans around the world are ready for another memorable chapter of Milan's football history, where every dribble and every goal will count toward claiming the coveted Supercoppa trophy. The footballing world will be watching closely as Inter and AC Milan face off, both hoping to seize this momentous occasion.