Inter down Milan to reach UCL final after 2010

Inter down Milan to return to the Champions League final after 13 years. The Nerazzurri could not have achieved this feat in a better way, as they beat their eternal rivals 3-0 on aggregate over the two legs. Inter have become the first finalist after defying all odds from the start. With a 2-0 loss at home to Bayern, they were written off, by most teams, but that is when their dream run started.

Inzaghi went with the same lineup that he had in the first leg. While, Milan got the boost of Rafael Leao, and one could sense a spring in their step. The Rossoneri were pressing high, as they decided to mark all three defenders in Inter’s back three. While, Brahim Diaz was pressing the number 6. However, this created space in the midfield, and Inter were willing to launch long balls towards Dzeko to win the second balls with their midfielders. While in defense, Inzaghi tasked Dumfries to man-mark Rafael Leao to eliminate his danger in transition. It was a cagey first half with lots of fouls committed by both teams.

AC Milan were creating combinations through their left flank. Tonali was helping out Theo and Leao to make overloads, and he found Diaz after getting past Mkhitaryan. However, the Spaniard’s effort lacked conviction and he missed a huge opportunity. Inter then managed to get back in the game, as Milan’s press became less intense. Leao finally found a brilliant chance to run at Inter’s defense as Dumfries was caught high up the field. However, the angle was against him, and he could not place his shot from the left foot on target. Inzaghi had to bring Brozovic as Mkhitaryan got off after his muscle injury.

Image Credits: inter.it

Inter down AC Milan as Lautaro scores the only goal

With Brozovic’s inclusion, Inter managed to slow the tempo of the game. This made it hard for Milan to find a chance in transition. Dzeko was helping out to keep the possession by dropping deep into pockets of space.

However, a 2-0 lead is always risky to defend, so Inzaghi decided to bring Lukaku and Gosens to add some fresh legs in defense. The Belgian striker’s impact was evident as he was pressing with intent and combining well with Lautaro. In less than ten minutes, Lukaku changed the game.

The ‘Lu-La’ duo combined well as Lautaro played to Belgian striker, and Lukaku took his time to attract Milan defenders. While, Lautaro made the run outside and received the ball in time from Lukaku to seal the game off. It was a sight to behold as the Nerazzurri celebrated with fans. But they will now face a 14-time champion Real Madrid or another heavyweight in Manchester City in the final.

Mangalam Pugalia: Mangalam is a football nerd who contributes as a match analyst at THE INTER WAY. He admires Antonio Conte’s system and can predict what the Nerazzurri manager will do next.
Leave a Comment