Notes On An Open 3-2 Derby Win

The first deby of the 2022-2023 season came relatively early. De Ketelaere had an early chance to test Samir Handanovic in Inter’s goal and later Leao almost beat the keeper.

It was Inter who scored first however. Milan playing high and not watchin Inter players well led to Marcelo Brozovic running free down the middle and easily beat Maignan with a low soft shot.

The game was tense with Denzel Dumfires and Theo having gotten yellows earlier and looked to continue that way when Hakan Calhanoglu’s poor shot was recovered by Tonali who found Leao. The Portuguese shot well and bear Handanovic in the far corner to tie the game.

Milan grew into the game and the confidence led to some minutes of domination with Leao, Giroud and Tonali missing consecutive chances. The half ended with Milan the better tam but lots more needed to be done.

Theo had another header chance early in the second that just missed the target following a deflected free kick. With the momentum still on Milan’s side the second goal arrived. With Inter looking in somewhat of cconfused state Leao found Giround who sneakily beat Handanovic. More was to come.

Giroud assisted Leao who danced through the defenders and beat the Inter goalie in a similar way as his first. Diaz came on for De Ketelaere and Inter made three subs. Inter narrowed the scoreline moments later Dzeko just beat Maignan from close range with Milan’s back four not looking the most solid. Momentum had shifted.

Saelemaekers and Origi came on for Messias and Giroud for fresh legs. Maignan was equal to the task when tested with punches and good feet. Origi had a chance but tried to do too much himself. Pobega and Kjaer came on for Tonali and Calabria for a changed formation to try to contain the opponent’s momentum.

The game was open and it seemed the score could change any moment, it was equally on edge and tense as is to be expected. Milan hung on for a very precious number of points.