As the clock ticks down to one of the most anticipated clashes in Italian football, the stage is set for the fifth Derby della Madonnina of the season, where AC Milan will face off against Inter Milan in the semi-final return leg of the Coppa Italia on April 23, 2025. With the first leg ending in a thrilling 1-1 draw, everything is on the line as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the final.
The excitement is palpable as Milan's head coach, Sergio Conceicao, addressed the media ahead of the match during a press conference held at Milanello. Broadcasting live on the AC Milan Official App and Milan TV, the press conference revealed the coach's thoughts on the upcoming match as well as his reflections on the recent passing of Pope Francis. "I am a practitioner and go to Mass every day at 6:30. He was an extraordinary man; we will miss his words and his gaze," Conceicao expressed, highlighting the emotional weight of the moment.
Conceicao emphasized the importance of the upcoming match, stating, "Tomorrow is a very important match for everyone involved with Milan, for the players, for those who work at the club, and for the fans. Winning the Coppa Italia would not change the judgment on the season, but for a club like Milan, reaching the final should be normal." His aspirations extend beyond this match, as he noted that a positive season would involve winning the Scudetto and advancing deep in the Champions League.
For Conceicao, the focus is firmly on the task at hand. "I expect a very competitive Milan against a strong Inter side. They are used to being in contention for all competitions, and I don't think they are fatigued. They have a deep squad that allows them to rotate players without losing quality," he said. This confidence reflects Milan's readiness to tackle their fierce rivals, despite their current position in the league, where they sit in ninth place.
Looking back at the previous match against Atalanta, Conceicao noted, "The feelings before the Atalanta match were good, but I had to make some adjustments at halftime. It was an even match against a quality opponent who tactically managed to stifle us by dropping their midfielders back." The coach's insights underline the tactical challenges Milan faces, but they also highlight the potential for improvement.
As for the tactical setup, Conceicao mentioned the significance of individual contributions alongside the chosen formation. "The formation is important, but each player must give their contribution. We know we need to defend against Inter's strengths and exploit their weaknesses. I've seen fantastic things in attack with our current setup, but defensively, we haven't been as solid as we want to be," he explained.
In terms of player availability, Conceicao confirmed that both Walker and Loftus-Cheek will be available for selection, although neither is at peak fitness. Conversely, Santi Gimenez's recent injury has seen him fall behind in the pecking order, with Conceicao stating, "I choose to start those who are in the best form; there is no strict hierarchy. The players who come on as substitutes are equally crucial to our success." This adaptability will be vital as Milan prepares for the high-stakes encounter.
As the match approaches, the pressure mounts not just for the players but for the coaching staff as well. Conceicao's record since taking over has been a mixed bag, with a points average of 1.58 from 24 matches, compared to his predecessor's 1.75. This semi-final presents an opportunity for him to turn the tide and secure a second title this season, following their Supercoppa triumph.
With the stakes so high, the atmosphere is electric. The last derby was a hard-fought battle, and Conceicao is keenly aware that each match against Inter is unique. "This will be the fourth time I face Inter this year, but every game is different," he said, stressing the need for his players to rise to the occasion.
The fans are eager for a victory, and the players are determined to deliver a performance that reflects the club's storied history. As Conceicao aptly put it, "For a club like this, with a great history of success, reaching the final of the Coppa Italia should be normal."
As the countdown to kick-off continues, both teams are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The players know that every moment counts, and the chance to secure a place in the final is a driving force behind their preparations. Will Milan rise to the occasion and seize this opportunity, or will Inter continue their dominance in this fierce rivalry? One thing is for certain: the Derby della Madonnina never fails to deliver excitement and drama.
As the two teams prepare to clash, the anticipation builds, and fans from both sides are left wondering how this latest chapter in the storied rivalry will unfold. Will Conceicao's men step up when it matters most and secure a place in the final? The answer will soon be revealed as the action unfolds on the pitch.
