One of the biggest derbies in the world takes place in Italy today, as city rivals Inter and AC Milan face off in the Derby Della Madonnina – Coppa Italia Quarter-Final. Who will have the bragging right?
Match Preview
Both sides come into the game with disappointing results over the weekend. The rossoneri were stunned at home by Atalanta as they lost 3-0, one of their worst performances this season. They could not get a grip on the game as Atalanta were everywhere, credits to them for a deserved win. On the bright side for Milan, new signing Mandzukic was able to make his 1st appearance and get a taste of playing in the San Siro. Let’s see if he will feature for them in the coppa as well.
On the other hand, the nerazzuri were slightly better as they were held to a 0-0 draw against Udinese, a game that would have tied them at 1st place had they won it. Inter could not benefit from Milan’s loss. Therefore, the standings remain the same in the league, with Milan 1st and Inter 2nd by 2 points.
However, Inter were able to put on a memorable performance against Juventus 2 weeks ago when they won 2-0. Conte will look to prepare his side the same way to get the result they need to advance to the semi finals.
Key Factors
Donnarumma is set to be missing for Milan due to suspension, so Tatarusanu is the man most likely to be drafted in. In addition, as mentioned by coach Pioli, Tonali and Mandzukic both have minor problems (no verb) so we doubt they will start the game. Calhanoglu is still in isolation after testing positive and Bennacer will be back against Bologna.
Nonetheless, for the rossoneri a great performance is needed to immediately put behind Saturday’s loss to Atalanta. Hear from Pioli before the derby:
On the other hand, the nerazzuri will have a strong team to pick from, as only D’Ambrosio is still injured. We will see how Conte will pick his side, with the recent goal drought of Lukaku and Martinez. Will he rely on Sanchez instead? Or keep the same lineup and hope they find the back of the goal?
Click here for the pre match interview with Antonio Conte.
Predicted Line-Up
AC Milan: Tatarusanu; Dalot, Kjaer, Romagnoli, Theo; Meite, Kessie; Saelemaekers, Diaz, Leao; Ibrahimovic. (4-2-3-1)
Inter Milan: Handanovic; Skriniar, De Vrij, Bastoni; Hakimi, Barella, Brozovic, Sensi, Darmian; Lukaku, Lautaro. (3-5-2)
Click here to see the referees for this game.
Match Prediction
Both teams will want to make a statement following their poor league games. It doesn’t get any better than this, the Milan derby for a place in the semi final, a statement win and the bragging rights of the city.
Finally, they both have what it takes to advance. Inter have kept 2 straight clean sheets and will look to extend that today. On the other end, Milan will want to make it up for their fans after the humiliating loss at home. What better way to do it than against your city rivals? As you kick them out of the cup and advance. They have the attacking ability to cause Inter problems, and they will not be shy to use their new Croation weapon when needed.
It should be a tight game, won’t be surprised if it even went to extra time. However, both teams should be ready to score and look to win. Inter might have more fight in them in case the game kept going, Milan will look to focus on the league probably and have the Europa League as well.
Derby Della Madonnina – Coppa Italia Quarter-Final. This match is worth much more than a place in the semifinal that is at stake. Who will have the bragging right?
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Definitely rooting for AC Milan!!!!
Good Luck! Always a tricky fixture these derbies, let’s see how it goes