Milan and Inter Clash for Coppa Italia Semi-Final Showdown

MILANO, Italia — Milan and Inter are set for a high-stakes derby this evening as they meet at San Siro for the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-finals. Kickoff is scheduled for 21:00 CEST. With the teams having faced each other three previous times this season, the rivalry intensifies over the potential for a spot in the final on May 14 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

Both teams are coming off their last encounters with varying fortunes. Milan, aiming for redemption after falling to Napoli in Serie A, is keen to leverage its past performances against Inter, boasting two wins and a draw in their previous three meetings this season. Meanwhile, Inter seeks to continue its strong campaign, currently leading Serie A as it aims for a potential treble.

The stakes are particularly high, as the winner of the semi-final will be rewarded with €2 million for reaching the final, with an additional €4.6 million awaiting the cup champion. “We know how important these matches are for our fans, and we aim to make them proud,” said Inter coach Simone Inzaghi during a press conference.

Tonight’s match promises to be closely contested, with both sides having attacking firepower. Inter’s lineup features a front pairing of Marcus Thuram and Joaquín Correa, supported by a strong midfield led by Nicolò Barella, who will captain the side. The defense will be anchored by Stefan de Vrij and Bastoni, while Milan will rely on Rafael Leão in their offensive efforts.

Milan’s manager, Sergio Conceição, is expected to start Leão alongside a formidable attacking trio including Christian Pulisic and Tammy Abraham. Conceição commented on the magnitude of the derby: “It’s a moment we all wait for; the rivalry fuels the players, and we are ready to fight for every inch on the pitch.”

As the teams warm up for the match, both sets of supporters are buzzing with excitement. The two clubs have a long history of rivalry, with a total of 242 official encounters, including 91 victories for Inter and 81 for Milan. Both teams remain evenly matched with this semi-final clash, highlighting the continuous battle for supremacy in Milan.

In a conversation with the press, Milan’s president Giuseppe Sala addressed recent comments by Inter’s CEO, Beppe Marotta, regarding stadium negotiations. Sala emphasized the urgency for both parties to move forward, saying, “Marotta’s focus should be on securing the scudetto, while we discuss future plans, and I believe all aim to respect the rules and timelines presented.”

Tonight’s match will be officiated by referee Michael Fabbri, along with assistants Preti and Baccini. Fans can watch the match live on Canale 5, with streaming available on Mediaset Infinity. As both teams aim for glory in the Coppa Italia, the atmosphere at San Siro is expected to be electric.