In the most anticipated match of the Serie A season, AC Milan rose to the occasion and claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory over their arch-rivals Inter Milan in the Derby della Madonnina. The game, which was already brimming with excitement and intensity, saw a late hero emerge in the form of Rafael Leão, whose brilliant goal in the final moments of the match sealed the win for Milan, avenging their previous defeat to Inter.
The first half was a tactical battle, with both teams closely matched in terms of possession and chances. Inter Milan, coming off a dominant performance in their last meeting, looked determined to maintain their superiority, but AC Milan’s defense stood firm, led by the ever-reliable Mike Maignan between the posts. The first breakthrough came in the 55th minute when Lautaro Martínez gave Inter the lead with a well-taken header, sending their supporters into a frenzy.
However, Milan’s response was swift and clinical. In the 72nd minute, they equalized through an exquisite strike from Olivier Giroud, who latched onto a perfectly placed ball in the box and slotted it home with precision. The game seemed set to end in a draw, but Leão had other plans. In the dying moments of the match, he picked up the ball just outside the box, evaded a challenge, and unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner, sending the Milan fans into ecstasy.
For AC Milan, this win was more than just a derby victory—it was a statement. With their backs against the wall after a tough start to the season, they showed resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in their ability to bounce back. Inter, on the other hand, will have to regroup quickly, as this defeat is a reminder that in Serie A, nothing is ever guaranteed.
As the season progresses, this victory could be the catalyst for AC Milan’s rise back to the top of Italian football. With players like Leão, Giroud, and the ever-improving Sandro Tonali, Milan has a squad capable of taking on the best. But as always in football, the road to the title is long, and the Derby della Madonnina was just one battle in what promises to be an unforgettable Serie A season.