AC MILAN v INTER: THE BRIEFING

"I've been involved in lots of derbies, but the Derby di Milano is something else." We're quoting a champion from our history, Kaká, to introduce the 180th meeting between AC Milan and Inter in Serie A. Our Briefing now presents three discussion points ahead of the first-ever derby to be played on a Monday.

ON THE ATTACK
AC Milan and Inter are, by some distance, the most prolific teams this league season. The Rossoneri and Nerazzurri score plenty of goals, making a lot of their opportunities: Pioli's side have a clear-cut chance conversion rate of 54% compared to Inter's 51%, although these opportunities often come about in different ways. The Rossoneri are more clinical and effective when it comes to aerial balls: this season, AC Milan have scored the most goals from corners (ten, an average of one every 15 corners) in Serie A. Meanwhile, Inzaghi's side have had success moving the ball around for prolonged periods: the Nerazzurri have found the net nine times from moves that have involved at least ten passes. Different styles for two teams that know each other well, having faced off on multiple occasions in recent years. The Rossoneri will need to aggressively and proactively deal with Inter's build-up play from the back without losing their shape while, at the same time, also trying to find ways to make the most of set-piece opportunities, especially by winning aerial duels.

MIDFIELD CONTROL
The men in the middle of the park, constantly supported by those on the wings. In AC Milan's case, the full-backs like to offer themselves as an option: Calabria has often been involved in moves in the middle of the pitch in recent outings, while Hernández is a focal point down the left. As for Inter, the wing-backs get up and down their respective flanks, lending support both in defence and attack. In previous derby encounters over the years, the result has often gone the way of the team that has had more control in midfield and, consequently, more control of the ball. This doesn't necessarily mean having more possession, but rather using the ball well with quick and direct interchanges. This will require dynamism and the contribution of every outfield player - not just the midfielders. From Giroud, who will look to lay it off to his teammates, through to the centre-back pairing of Gabbia and Tomori, who will aim to build from the back. In short, a team effort is needed to gain the upper hand in midfield.

THE IMPORTANCE OF STARTING WELL (AND FINISHING EVEN STRONGER)
The upcoming showdown will pit together the two Serie A sides who have scored the most first-half goals this season, as well as two of the three teams who have found the net the most in the opening 15 minutes. In big matches, making a strong start is often crucial, and this derby will be no exception. In recent clashes between the sides, the Nerazzurri have often opened the scoring in the first quarter of an hour, and having to come from behind on the back of a midweek outing in Europe would be complicated for the Rossoneri. However, if we score first, Inzaghi's side would find themselves in an unusual situation: Inter have only fallen behind in four matches this Serie A campaign. Meanwhile, we have only lost once (21 wins and five draws) after taking the lead. It'll also be important to finish the game well. 15 of AC Milan's goals (third-best tally in the league) and 18 of Inter's (the highest number, level with Roma) have arrived in the final 15 minutes of play, a period where the Rossoneri's substitutes - they've bagged each of AC Milan's last five goals in the final quarter of an hour - have often been decisive. Those who come on, then, could make the difference.

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