Inter Milan and AC Milan delivered a captivating showdown in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final at the San Siro, ending in a 1-1 draw that leaves the tie finely balanced. Hakan Calhanoglu emerged as Inter’s hero, rescuing his side with a spectacular long-range strike to cancel out Tammy Abraham’s opener. The result ensures an electrifying second leg as both teams seek Coppa Italia glory.
Milan Derby Heats Up as AC Milan’s Unbeaten Run Continues
AC Milan extended their unbeaten run against Inter Milan to four matches, a feat they hadn’t accomplished in over 20 years. Despite their recent dominance, the Rossoneri failed to secure a lead heading into the second leg, with their defensive flaws exposed by a determined Inter side.
The Derby della Madonnina is known for its intensity, and this latest chapter did not disappoint. Both teams approached the game with tactical precision, creating numerous scoring opportunities throughout the contest.
Early Chances and Defensive Brilliance
Inter Milan started on the front foot, pressing high and testing AC Milan’s defense early. Joaquin Correa produced the first clear chance of the match in the ninth minute with a powerful drive from the edge of the box. AC Milan’s goalkeeper Mike Maignan reacted swiftly, diving low to make an important save.
Inter nearly took the lead moments later when Stefan de Vrij connected with a well-delivered Hakan Calhanoglu free-kick. However, Tammy Abraham’s vital intervention on the goal line kept the score level, underlining his contributions at both ends of the pitch.
Meanwhile, Rafael Leao struggled to make his usual impact but finally tested Inter’s keeper Josep Martinez in the 26th minute. Martinez responded with a brilliant save, sticking out his boot to deny the Portugal international’s close-range effort.
Martinez continued to showcase his skill, charging off his line to thwart Tammy Abraham on a breakaway. The Inter keeper’s efforts kept his side in contention as AC Milan looked to capitalize on their counter-attacking opportunities.
Tammy Abraham Breaks the Deadlock
AC Milan finally found the breakthrough just after the halftime interval. In the 47th minute, Alex Jimenez delivered a precise pass to Youssouf Fofana, who nudged the ball toward Tammy Abraham. The English striker took a touch to steady himself before rifling a low shot into the far corner past Martinez.
Abraham’s goal was a testament to his clinical finishing ability and composure under pressure. It also marked a significant moment for AC Milan, who had been frustrated by Inter’s defensive resilience throughout the first half.
Tammy Abraham with a sensational strike for AC Milan! His goal takes the game to another level power, precision, and passion! ⚽
Video Courtesy : Coppa Italia#CoppaItalia #ACMilan #TammyAbraham pic.twitter.com/wOz2dt990Q
— STARZPLAY | ستارزبلاي (@STARZPlayArabia) April 2, 2025
Calhanoglu’s Thunderous Equalizer
Despite falling behind, Inter Milan refused to be rattled. Just 20 minutes later, Hakan Calhanoglu delivered a moment of magic to draw his team level. The Turkish midfielder, formerly of AC Milan, unleashed a thunderous strike from 25 yards out following a clever lay-off from Joaquin Correa.
Hakan Çalhanoğlu (31) with a goal from outside the box against his ex-club Milan. pic.twitter.com/FTVsfoWQqT
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) April 3, 2025
The ball rocketed past Maignan and nestled into the back of the net, leaving the AC Milan keeper with no chance. It was a goal worthy of the occasion, showcasing Calhanoglu’s technical brilliance and his ability to rise to the moment when it matters most.
For AC Milan supporters, the equalizer was a bitter pill to swallow. Calhanoglu’s history with their club only added to the drama of the occasion, making his celebration all the more intense.
Late Drama and Missed Opportunities
With the score tied, both teams continued to push forward in search of a decisive goal. Inter Milan nearly completed the comeback when Marcus Thuram’s cross deflected off Theo Hernandez’s heel, finding Nicola Zalewski at the back post. Maignan produced a stunning save to deny Zalewski, preserving AC Milan’s hopes of taking an advantage into the second leg.
Rafael Leao also came close to snatching a winner for AC Milan with a spectacular curling effort that narrowly missed the target. The Portuguese winger, who had been largely subdued throughout the match, almost produced a moment of brilliance to steal the win.
What Lies Ahead
The 1-1 draw leaves everything to play for in the second leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final. Both Inter Milan and AC Milan will need to bring their best as they battle for a place in the final. Calhanoglu’s stunning equalizer ensures that the tie remains wide open, with both teams having every reason to believe they can progress.
For Inter Milan, improving their defensive organization will be key to success, while AC Milan will look to maintain their unbeaten run against their city rivals. With so much at stake, the return leg promises to be another thrilling encounter.
This was the sixth consecutive Derby della Madonnina where both teams found the net, highlighting the evenly matched nature of these fierce rivals. Fans from both sides will eagerly anticipate the conclusion of this gripping Coppa Italia semi-final.
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