A Balanced Battle at San Siro
The Milan derby ends even with a gripping 1-1 draw between Milan and Inter at the San Siro on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, in the Italian Cup semi-final first leg. Tammy Abraham put Milan ahead in the 47th minute, only for Hakan Calhanoglu to level the score for Inter in the 67th. The result keeps the tie alive for the second leg on April 23, promising more drama.
First Half: Close Calls and Solid Defending
Inter nearly struck first when Calhanoglu’s free-kick found Besik, whose header was nodded goalward by De Vrij. Abraham, however, cleared it off the line. Milan countered in the 26th minute as Reynders fed Rafael Leao, who unleashed a fierce shot from the left, only for Inter’s goalkeeper to make a stunning save. The half ended goalless despite both sides’ efforts.
Milan Derby Ends Even with Second-Half Fireworks
The second half ignited with Milan’s breakthrough. Abraham capitalized on a loose ball, touched on by Fofana, and fired past Inter’s keeper in the 47th minute. Inter hit back swiftly, with Nicolo Barella’s powerful shot denied by Mike Maignan in the 49th. The equalizer arrived in the 67th minute when Calhanoglu rocketed a shot from outside the box after a Correa pass, thrilling the Nerazzurri faithful.
Late Drama and Goalkeeping Heroics
Inter pressed after leveling the score. Maignan shone in the 69th minute, thwarting Thuram’s blast and Zalewski’s effort following a Kyle Walker error. Mkhitaryan nearly won it for Inter in the 83rd, but Maignan stood tall again. Milan fought back late, with Leao’s shot skimming the post and Calhanoglu’s free-kick sailing just over, leaving the score tied.
All to Play For
This 1-1 draw sets up an electrifying second leg. Abraham’s opener and Calhanoglu’s response showcased both teams’ quality, while Maignan’s saves kept Milan in contention. With the Milan derby proving its reputation for intensity, fans eagerly await the April 23 decider at San Siro.
