Derby Draw Proves That AC Milan and Inter Milan Are Returning to High Standards

In recent years, the Derby della Madonnina has been lacking in its traditional grace, star power and entertainment. The fans of both AC Milan and Inter Milan have ensured clashes between the two teams remain colourful and passionate, but the same quality hasn’t been present on the field of play.

Less than two years ago, the derby arguably reached its lowest ebb.

The match took place at the San Siro on November 23, 2014. Roberto Mancini had just been reinstalled as Inter head coach, and his first game back in charge came against Milan. However, both teams, giants of Italian football and frequent competitors within Serie A’s upper echelons, played out a contest full of endeavour but short on class.

One look at the two teams provides a quick yet penetrative insight as to exactly why both Milanese giants were considered well below their best at that point.

Of Milan’s lineup on that night, only three remain—Cristian Zapata, Mattia De Sciglio and Giacomo Bonaventura. And, of that three, only the latter two are considered to be important players within current coach Vincenzo Montella’s team.

Other names that populated the Rossoneri lineup for this particular derby were extremely underwhelming, from the volatile Philippe Mexes to the inconsistent Jeremy Menez, as well as those such as Michael Essien and Fernando Torres, who were considered already past their best.

And Mancini’s Inter lineup wasn’t much better. A central-defensive duo of Andrea Ranocchia and Juan Jesus struck little fear, if any, into the hearts of opposition strikers, while a midfield of Fredy Guarin, Zdravko Kuzmanovic and Joel Obi left plenty to be desired.

Milan derby tonight. Not quite what it was once was. Iconic picture. @acmilan @Inter pic.twitter.com/jVUzMNeq6d

— Sam (@samuelJayC) November 20, 2016

Fortunately, times have changed. This was emphatically proved on Sunday night, when the two sides played out a compelling 2-2 draw in Serie A play in front of a sold-out crowd. The latest instalment of the Derby della Madonnina entailed everything that makes a great derby and more; for the first time in years, the fans were arguably outperformed by those they turned up to watch.

Buoyed by the appointment of a new coach in Stefano Pioli, Inter started the match on the front foot. They appeared much more organised and motivated in the defensive phase, operating in a clear 4-4-1-1 shape that saw Joao Mario move up to support lone striker Mauro Icardi in a high press.

Seeking to restrict Milan’s patient buildup play, the Nerazzurri had a great deal of initial success. Forcing their opponents into inaccurate long balls or turnovers, Pioli’s side dominated much of the first half thanks to their approach without possession.

While going into the match they sat 11th in the Serie A table, there was nothing middling about this Inter display. Finally, after …

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