AC Milan vs. Inter Milan result: Rafael Leao sparkles as champions hold on for derby win
The Derby della Madonnina was won by AC Milan thanks to two goals and one assist from Rafael Leao, despite Inter Milan’s comeback in the second half.
After 21 minutes, Marcelo Brozovic broke through the opposition defense and rolled a shot past AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan to give Simone Inzaghi’s team the lead against the odds.
However, the defending Serie A winners AC Milan soon reacted and evened the score through Leao, who scored after Inter gave up possession inexplicably in the centre of the field.
Olivier Giroud’s strike past Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic nine minutes into the second half gave AC Milan the lead after Leao’s excellent effort down the left side prolonged their dominance.
And to make it 3-1 for the home team, Leao scored a goal reminiscent of a vintage Milan derby by outmuscling his defender and slipping the ball into the far corner.
Leao, the agent of change
Leao, 23, was in outstanding form in this derby as he made the difference for his club, scoring twice and setting up another. Leao was named Serie A’s Player of the Season last season as AC Milan won the scudetto. Inter struggled to cope with his aggressive rushing down the left wing.