It is the Derby della Madonnina! And for the first time in a while, this epic clash will go a long way in determining who is crowned Kings of Italy! it’s the Milan derby at San Siro Saturday afternoon.
It’s an exciting prospect indeed and Saturday can’t come quickly enough, the passion, mystery and intrigue so often associated with games such as these will once again culminate to produce an absolute spectacle…but expect the intensity to be a completely different kettle of fish.
To Win (90 mins)
Inter 8/10 | Draw 11/4 | AC Milan 31/10
Inter Milan
If there was ever a time Inter would gladly welcome a derby – surely it is now? They are in sublime form, unbeaten since they travelled to Madrid in December and are starting to look like Champions.
Enough will be made in the build-up (and admittedly also in this article) about the essence of a derby match, but this will have a touch more spice to it than the usual Italian basil and garlic delight.
These sides are both within striking distance of the Scudetto and if that wasn’t enough, this game will likely go a long way in deciding which side of Milan the title ends up. I don’t think it’s a drunken call to suggest that if Inter should win this game, they would all but wrap the season up!
Inter Milan are once again an Italian football side…yes, I know it’s a sort of tongue-in-cheek comment, but it is truly a welcomed sight to see them dominate possession for large portions of the game and score well-worked goals. In Nicolo Barella and Edin Dzeko they have players who aren’t necessarily in the limelight anymore, but just go about their business like the goal scorers they are.
I think the fluidity and rugged ability Inter have to just take control of football matches will be the difference here and inevitably land them the Scudetto. The San Siro is everything you and I understand a fortress to be – Inter haven’t lost there in their last 28 League games! – and so I can’t see past the home win.
Serie A Gameweek 24
AC Milan
For Milan, this is an incredibly important game. After playing out to a goalless draw with Juventus last time out, they are now third (level with Napoli) four points off their ostensible rivals.
Stefano Pioli can thankfully rely on a full fit squad, so there are no excuses come Saturday evening. Milan would be pleased with the performances they are able to register away from home, it is just when they play at the San Siro that they sort of flatter to deceive.
In many ways this could be the game they need to then charge on toward the end of the season, a fixture at the San Siro but as the away side might in fact change their fortune!
You would think Milan treat this game as a sort of ‘watershed’ moment…they haven’t found a win in their last two league games. They are four points off top spot. And yes, this is well and truly the business end of the season. Afterall, this is a derby match, and anything can happen…but there is no use doubting that amongst all its history and competition, this game in particular holds a true psychological boost or indeed damage.
Prediction: Inter Milan (8/10)
I wouldn’t be surprised to see AC Milan score, there is no denying the firepower they have upfront. Their defence, however, is where the game is lost for me. I suspect Inter will completely dominate the game, offering very little chance for Milan to get a foothold into the game.
At 8/10 a punt on the nose makes all the appeal necessary to have a crack!
