This article contains adult content that may be inappropriate for minors. Please confirm that you are 18 years or older to continue. This article contains images or details that some readers may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised. The fight for the scudetto in Italy is still not a closed book. Milan had the obligation to win the Milan derby against rival Inter, and they did so, winning 1-0 in a match that was not very well played but had the intensity of games where giving less than a hundred percent is prohibited. Without Marcus Thuram and the injured Lautaro Martínez, the Serie A leader entered the match weakened in their attack, and Cristian Chivu's team felt this, as they failed to capitalize on the chances created by the wingers and materialize them in the heart of the area. Except for a dangerous shot from Modric in the 3rd minute, following a mistake by goalkeeper Sommer, the first half hour of the game was marked by the two teams' adjustments (both presenting three center-backs), unable to break through the opponent's lines in the final third. Massimiliano Allegri relied on the mobile forward duo formed by Pulisic and Rafael Leão, but only the American had a proactive intervention – the Portuguese was very apathetic, showing he was not in the best physical condition. Inter had the first great opportunity: in the 33rd minute, Mkhitaryan managed to progress through the center of the field and surprisingly found himself face to face with Maignan in the area, but allowed the French goalkeeper to make the save. The play seemed to have awakened the rossoneri because two minutes later, the home team was able to create a textbook play: they quickly switched flanks from right to left, and Fofana, surprisingly, made a pass at the level of his teammate Modric to leave Estupiñan in a shooting position. The Ecuadorian did not waste the chance: a shot to the corner with no chance for the goalkeeper. A response from the nerazzurri was expected immediately or after the break. But Milan's good defensive organization and a certain predictability from Inter resulted in many balls launched into the area, catching Pavlovic and company off guard. As a result, Maignan made few saves. The score remained unchanged because Milan also lacked the ability to capitalize on counterattacks, due to a Rafael Leão who was far from lethal. But he smiled like the others in the end. Winning the derby della madonnina is always a highlight of the season. Consequently, it has reignited the championship: there are now seven points of disadvantage for the rival.
And the Milan remains central to this story.
And the Milan remains central to this story.
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