Milano, Italia — Set for a thrilling confrontation, AC Milan and Inter Milan clashed in a highly anticipated semifinal of the Coppa Italia on April 2, 2025. The match kicked off sharply at 21:00 local time, with both teams eager to secure a spot in the finals.
Despite the intense rivalry, the first half concluded goalless at 0-0, showcasing impressive performances from players like Rafael Leao and Tammy Abraham for Milan, while Stefan de Vrij and Nicolò Barella stood out for Inter. With both teams eager for victory, the tension was palpable and the stakes high.
Milan took the lead early in the match when Abraham scored in the second minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Bisseck. Inter quickly responded, with Barella attempting to change the momentum by taking a shot from the edge of the box, but goalkeeper Mike Maignan made a fantastic save.
As the game progressed, both teams struggled for control. The Inter squad, under coach Simone Inzaghi, tried to break through Milan’s defenses, but they were thwarted repeatedly. Conceiçao, coach for Milan, noted, “We focused on maintaining control and staying organized; our defense held firm against their attacks.”
In the 10th minute, Inter’s Barella made a critical mistake that led to a counterattack for Milan, but a timely intervention from Martinez prevented further damage. Tensions escalated as Bisseck received a yellow card following a hard tackle on Leao, prompting both teams to adjust their strategies.
Inzaghi’s men exhibited flair but lacked precision, as evident when Carlos Augusto‘s cross fell short of reaching Pulisic, leaving Martinez to intervene once more. Conceiçao appeared frustrated with his players’ inability to maintain composure during critical moments, urging them from the sidelines.
Halftime analysis highlighted major opportunities missed from both sides, particularly from Leao and Abraham. Observers noted that the midfield battle was fiercely contested, with both sides jockeying for position and control of the game. “The key will be who can capitalize on set pieces and counterattacks,” a sports analyst remarked pre-match.
As the second half commenced, both coaches opted to retain the same starting line-ups, indicating a desire for continuity in their game plans. In the 14th minute, Conceiçao made his first substitutions, bringing on Pavard, Zalewski, and Mkhitaryan to inject new life into the team.
Milan, however, continued to kindle momentum and maintained pressure on Inter, who found themselves increasingly confined to their half. The tension in the stands mirrored the pressure on the pitch, as fans rallied behind their teams, hoping for a climactic finish.
By the end of the match, both teams demonstrated determination, but through tactical discipline and well-timed plays, Milan secured their position. Fans eagerly await the outcome as the knockout phase of the Coppa Italia continues, and the road to the finals draws closer.
