AC Milan – Internazionale: Advantage Inter As Milan Miss Leão (0-2)
This match can really be divided into three parts - the frenetic opening, the slow middle game and the ever so slightly more exciting ending after Milan switched their in-possession system. Clearly, Pioli’s side lost it at the start, when they really felt the absence of Leão, who would have thrived in a transition-based game. His return will certainly be the key to their hopes of a comeback, but the task has been made much tougher for him due to the game state that will allow Inter to sit deeper.
Indeed, Inzaghi should be delighted with this performance and result. His players went out and dealt the damage very early on and then calmed things down to minimize the risk of conceding. Their approach to the second half should be expected to continue in the second leg, where their main focus must be on limiting Leão.
The Derby della Madonnina was back on Europe's biggest stage for the first time in eighteen years. The iconic imagery from the two sides' last Champions League meeting has since been immortalized, but Inter fans had no reason to recreate such scenes as they watched their side race to a two-goal lead in an electric San Siro.
Tactical analysis and match report by Neel Shelat.
A lot has changed since these two sides last met in a Champions League knockout match. They both recently ended long Scudetto droughts, but both have had disappointing Serie A campaigns this season. A Champions League final would be some way to make up for that, though, so they certainly would have been up for the occasion.
Get access to this article and all other quality content of Between the Posts!
Start your two-week free trial now!
Completely ad-free exclusive articles from our expert tactics writers, plus a complete match plots page to explore.
Already a member? Log in
Comments