With both Inter and Milan getting back their identity Derby Della Madonnina got back to where it belongs – among the most exciting derbies out there. The teams from Milan offered a great spectacle to the fans at the full San Siro stadium, ending up scoring six goals.
The full turnover added even more shine over Inter’s 4-2 win over their greatest rivals and gave a sign that they know how to boost their performance and fight till the end. That is definitely something that Juventus need to have in mind in the title challenge.
Despite the result, in the first half, Milan showed a clear and well-executed strategy, which resulted in them scoring twice. They controlled the game at first, but Inter managed to increase the tempo after the break and get the most out of their speed and fluid connection.
This tactical analysis aims to break down both teams’ tactics and look into why Milan wasted their 2-0 advantage to end up with empty hands.
Lineups
Antonio Conte didn’t take any risks, sticking to the 3-5-2 formation. The goalkeeping spot was occupied by Daniele Padelli due to Samir Handanovič’s injury. The back-three contained Milan Škriniar, Stefan de Vrij and Diego Godín. Ashley Young and Antonio Canreva were used in the role of wing-backs, with a central midfield including Nicolò Barella, Marcelo Brozović, Matías Vecino. The attacking duo was formed by Alexis Sánchez and Romelu Lukaku.
Stefano Pioli relied on more of a 4-2-3-1 formation. Gianluigi Donnarumma covered the goal, supported by Theo Hernández, Alessio Romagnoli, Simon Kjær and Andrea Conti. Ismaël Bennacer and Franck Kessié were responsible for covering the central areas, whilst Ante Rebić, Hakan Çalhanoğlu and Samu Castillejo were more attack-minded, supporting Zlatan Ibrahimović at the top.
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