AC Milan and Inter will meet in the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2003, and it is perhaps a battle that nobody predicted months ago.
This morning’s edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport (via MilanNews) writes how the Euroderby has gone from being a dream to reality. When the draw for the quarter-finals was made it became apparent that it could happen, but for both clubs to make it through to the final four means the eyes of the world will be on the city next month.
Both teams will rely on five players in their bid to reach the final in Istanbul, with Milan having Mike Maignan and Rafael Leao as their two true champions.
The French goalkeeper made some big saves against Spurs such as the one on Harry Kane and against Napoli as he kept out Di Lorenzi in the first leg, while when Leao is on form he takes Milan to another dimension.
Then there is Stefano Pioli. Despite a year that has not gone as expected domestically, the Rossoneri coach was able to field a new Milan in the Champions League, precisely from a tactical point of view.
Throughout the year, the team have had a certain tactical flexibility that made them unpredictable, but the masterpiece was achieved against Spalletti who he reined in three consecutive times and conceded just one goal in 270 minutes.
There seems to be a family atmosphere at Milan, as seen by the fact Leao called Pioli a father figure, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic is seen as an older brother by everyone. A close-knit team that brings out its empathy in the most important moments.
Finally, needless to say, history is on Milan’s side. Having such European pedigree adds a certain weight that cannot be underestimated and that ignites something in the hearts of players and fans when the Champions League music plays.