On Saturday evening, the eyes of the footballing world were firmly fixed on the San Siro as AC Milan and Internazionale locked horns in the 176th Derby della Madonnina.
It was a high-octane match full of emotion, where Milan emerged as 3-2 victors against their crosstown rivals, handing Inter their second Serie A defeat in three matches.
Internazionale started out on top, taking an early lead through Marcelo Brozović.
Milan equalized in the first half and rallied to score two more in the second period with Rafael Leão netting his first ever derby goals, while also providing an assist.
The Nerazzurri managed to hit back with Edin Džeko and may well have rescued a point were it not for the heroics of Mike Maignan in goal.
On the balance of play, Milan were deserved winners on the night.
Stefano Pioli tactically edged his counterpart Simone Inzaghi.
This means the Rossoneri have now won two derbies on the bounce, a feat that was last achieved by Massimiliano Allegris title-winning side of 2010/11.
It also means that Inzaghi is yet to taste derby glory since his arrival at Inter in May 2021.
This tactical analysis provides insight into how Saturdays showdown unfolded.
The analysis highlights the key aspects and tactics that were on display throughout.
Lineups
The hosts set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Maignan started between the sticks, and the solid partnership of Fikayo Tomori and Pierre Kalulu played in the heart of the Milan defence.
Sandro Tonali and Ismaël Bennacer anchored the midfield and it was Olivier Giroud who led the line.
Inter pl
