The highly anticipated clash between AC Milan and Inter de Milão is set to unfold today, April 2, 2025, at the iconic San Siro Stadium in Milan. This match marks the first leg of the semi-final in the Copa da Itália 2024/25, with kick-off scheduled for 16:00 (Brasília time). Fans are eager to witness the fierce rivalry of the Derby della Madonnina, a contest that has consistently delivered thrilling football.
Both teams reached this stage after impressive quarter-final performances. AC Milan secured their spot by defeating AS Roma with a convincing 3-1 victory, showcasing a strong team effort that included two goals from Tammy Abraham and a debut goal from João Félix. Meanwhile, Inter de Milão cruised past Lazio, winning 2-0, thanks to a stunning goal from Marko Arnautovic and a penalty converted by Hakan Calhanoglu.
Currently, the two teams are experiencing contrasting fortunes in the Italian Championship. Inter de Milão leads Serie A with 67 points, three points ahead of second-placed Napoli. They are riding high on a wave of confidence, having not lost in their last eight matches. On the other hand, AC Milan finds itself in a precarious ninth position with 47 points, struggling to keep pace with the European qualification spots.
Historically, the Derby della Madonnina has been fiercely contested. In their 242 meetings, Inter holds the edge with 91 victories compared to Milan's 81, with 70 matches ending in a draw. However, in recent encounters, Milan has had the upper hand, winning two of their last three meetings, including a dramatic 3-2 victory in the Supercopa Italiana earlier this season.
The stakes are high for both sides as they vie for a place in the final of the Copa da Itália. The winner of this semi-final will face the victor of the other semi-final between Empoli and Bologna, who previously met, with Bologna winning the first leg 3-0.
AC Milan is coached by Sérgio Conceição, who will be looking to inspire his team to bounce back from a disappointing 2-1 loss to Napoli in their last league outing. The Rossoneri have faced challenges this season, including an early exit from the UEFA Champions League playoffs against Feyenoord. Fans will be hopeful that their team can channel their historic rivalry into a strong performance today.
In terms of lineups, Milan is expected to field a strong team, with Mike Maignan in goal, supported by a defensive line featuring Walker, Gabbia, Pavlovic, and Hernández. The midfield will see Fofana, Bondo, Pulisic, Rejnders, and João Félix, while Tammy Abraham leads the attack. Meanwhile, Inter de Milão, managed by Simone Inzaghi, will look to maintain their strong form with goalkeeper Sommer and a defense bolstered by Pavard, Acerbi, Bastoni, and Darmian. The midfield will consist of Barella, Calhanoglu, and Mkhitaryan, with the attacking duo of Thurram and Lautaro Martínez expected to create danger.
As the match approaches, excitement is palpable among the supporters. The clash will be broadcast live on CazéTV (YouTube) and ESPN, allowing fans to follow every moment of this epic encounter. The return leg of this semi-final is scheduled for April 23, 2025, and both teams will be keen to establish a solid advantage heading into that decisive match.
With the history, the rivalry, and the stakes involved, the Derby della Madonnina promises to be a thrilling spectacle. Will AC Milan rise to the occasion and turn their season around, or will Inter de Milão continue their quest for silverware? Only time will tell as these two giants of Italian football collide in a match that is sure to be remembered.
