EUROPEAN FOOTBALL

Milan Derby likely to manifest in UCl semifinal after thumping victories

Nicolò Barella

As Inter stunned Benfica and Milan edged ahead of Napoli in the last eight of the league this week. The possibility of a Milan Derby in the UCL semi-final strengthened. Here are a few key takeaways from the first legs of the quarter-finals.

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Nerazzurri and Rossoneri,Milan’s top teams, outclass opponents

The Rossoneri rose to the occasion, defeating the Partenopei in the first leg of the quarter-finals due to Ismael Bennacer’s first-half goal in a packed San Siro. André-Frank Zambo Anguissa of Napoli was sent off in unfortunate circumstances and will miss the second leg next Tuesday as well as defender Kim Min-jae, who was yellow carded.
Inter likely to progress into the final four in Lisbon after shocking the hosts with two second-half goals. Nicol Barella headed a goal from a beautiful Alessandro Bastoni cross. Romelu Lukaku converted from the penalty spot to give the Nerazzurri a surprise victory.

Maignan made five spectacular saves to seal AC Milan’s victory

Brahim Diaz was the man of the match. However, Milan goalie Mike Maignan demonstrated that he has limited competition in the Champions League as Milan defeated Napoli. After a performance studded with world-class saves. The French international assured the Rossoneri travel to the Stadio Maradona next week with a goal advantage. The Milan defence was filled with uncertainty as reserve Ciprian Tătărușanu failed to inspire belief as Maignan recovered from a calf injury. However, with the 27-year-old back in goal as a permanent fixture, Stefano Pioli’s team appear far less vulnerable. The elegant footwork of Diaz and the searing charges of Rafael Leo dominated the highlights. But Milan owed their quarter-final first leg victory to Maignan.

Late in the second half, an amazing one-handed save against Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo demonstrated the worth of the keeper who ranks among Europe’s finest shot-stoppers.

Inzaghi’s tactics lead Inter to their first UCL semi-final after 13 years

The defeat against Benfica could have been the end of Inter boss Simone Inzaghi’s tenure, as criticism mounted following a winless streak of six games in all competitions. In Serie A, the Nerazzurri fell to Spezia, Fiorentina, and drew at Salernitana. But the 47-year-old manager gained some relief when his team recovered to win brilliantly in Lisbon. Inter’s almost comical profligacy in front of goal had become a big talking point. However they capitalised on their chances at the Estádio da Luz, with Barella and Lukaku on target to secure a morale-boosting quarter-final first-leg victory.

Inzaghi chose to press high, counter quickly, and defend with zeal as he silenced his numerous critics. Bastoni was perfect in defence and produced a superb assist for Barella. While goalie André Onana once again demonstrated his big-game prowess. It is very difficult to convince some Nerazzurri Tifosi that Inzaghi has a long-term future at the club, although Inter are on their way to of their first Champions League semi-final in 13 years under his leadership.

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