After the disappointment of a loss in their recent European match, AC Milan must quickly shift their focus back to the league as they prepare to face their city rivals, Inter Milan, in the 182nd Serie A Derby della Madonnina. Currently trailing their old adversaries by 16 points on the outskirts of the European qualification spots, AC can take pride in winning consecutive derby matches across all competitions, a feat they had only achieved twice in the previous 13 encounters (with 2 draws and 9 losses).
Under the guidance of Sérgio Conceição since the end of 2024, AC Milan has a manager who is well-acquainted with their opponents, having played for Inter during his illustrious career. Following their victory over Inter in the Italian Super Cup final earlier this year, the Portuguese boss has the opportunity to become the first AC Milan manager since Massimiliano Allegri in 2011 to win his first two derby matches. Adding weight to this possibility is their strong home record, with no team managing to defeat AC Milan at their own stadium since October (with 5 wins and 4 draws).
Flying high in the pursuit of their 21st Serie A championship, Inter Milan will occupy the away changing room at their shared stadium, fully aware that a victory will enable them to at least keep up with league leaders Napoli. Following their successful entry into the Champions League round of 16 with a win earlier this week, the Nerazzurri are currently enjoying a strong streak, with their sole defeat in the past 12 games occurring in the Supercoppa final against AC Milan (W10, D1).
Despite their loss in the derby, Inter Milan have historically defeated their city rivals more times than any other team in Serie A (70), although they have also drawn against them on 56 occasions, which is the highest number of draws against any specific opponent. More significantly, Simone Inzaghi’s team has struggled to secure victories against top-eight teams at San Siro, having failed to win four out of five matches (D3, L1). However, they have managed to remain unbeaten in league matches when considered favorites by bookmakers (W15, D5).
Players to keep an eye on: Prior to the round, Tijjani Reijnders of AC Milan stands out as the top-scoring central midfielder in Serie A, having netted six goals. Notably, four of his last five goals were scored at the San Siro. Lautaro Martínez is currently on a remarkable streak, having scored seven goals in his last five competitive appearances for Inter, including the first goal in three of those matches.
Interesting fact: Inter Milan has managed to score before half-time in all seven Milan derbies in Serie A under Simone Inzaghi’s management.
