Wednesday’s match was AC Milan’s finest performance this season by a long way. In the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final, they beat Inter Milan 3-0. AC Milan completed a comprehensive semifinal win after coming away with a 4-1 aggregate victory. That success catapulted them into the popular final, set for May 14 at Stadio Olimpico. Luka Jovic was the match’s MVP, scoring two of the prettiest goals you’ll ever see. Tijjani Reijnders made headlines as well, putting a stamp on the score line.
The game started off with both teams grappling for dominance, but it was AC Milan who were able to capitalize first. Only nine minutes before the break, Luka Jovic equalized with a thundering header. He couldn’t miss on the connection, expertly connecting with a well-placed cross from Alex Jimenez. That goal changed the momentum and proved to be the turning point as AC Milan carried all of the momentum going into the second half. They went into halftime up 1-0.
A Strong Start for AC Milan
Just like the first half, AC Milan wasted no time in extending their lead in the second stanza. It took just four minutes more before Jovic netted his second, showing his cool finishing and impressive technique. This goal not only entrenched AC Milan’s superiority on the field, but it put Inter Milan in panic mode to get back on their heels. Tijjani Reijnders then added a third, guaranteeing the Rossoneri a relatively comfortable cushion.
AC Milan controls the game tactically and with their collective, cohesive play. Their execution with the scoring opportunities given to them would prove to be the difference en route to a dominating win over their cross-town rivals. While that single-player talent shone, the match displayed the incredible communication and coordination of Team USA.
Looking Ahead to the Final
AC Milan rejoices with this important victory and now looks ahead to the Coppa Italia final. Their opponents will be Bologna or Empoli. Bologna already leads 3-0 from the first leg against Empoli in the semi-finals. AC Milan has the opportunity to win another piece of silverware with the upcoming final. This adds to their Italian Super Cup victory earlier this year.
Aside from their considerable success in recent years in cup competitions, this has been a difficult season for AC Milan as a whole. With the team languishing in ninth place in the league and coming off an early exit from the Champions League, their ongoing struggles have really defined the campaign. Making it to the Coppa Italia final has offered an opportunity to make amends.
A Mixed Bag of Results
Sergio Conceicao’s side floundered under the weight of an unfulfilling domestic campaign to date. This loss will only increase that pressure as they head down the home stretch of their campaign. At the same time, AC Milan will want to use this win as a springboard to get back on track with some consistency ahead of an all important final.
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