Milan 1, Inter 0: Beyond Words

Much like the Derby win three years ago, I am filled with emotions that are difficult to put into mere words. After everything we have been subjected to this past three years, tonight’s victory feels like some sort of justice has been served. That all is going to be right in the world again. A vindication for Milan fans, and a putting of Inter in their place again. One goal to rule them all.

Exactly.

The game was not beautiful football, as I am sadly growing accustomed to, but Milan dominated. Seedorf’s tactics were spot on, and Inter took seven shots but didn’t get a single one on target. Milan, on the other hand, repeatedly threatened, with 14 shots and four on target, Handanovic was a busy man. But it was a brilliant header from a defensive midfielder who only stands 5’8 ½” (1.74m) tall that decided it. De Jong’s header from Balotelli’s free kick in the 66th gave Milan the win, 1-0. Balotelli was simply a beast, I would not have wanted to be in front of any of his free kicks. No surprise he got the assist.

Who says Balotelli never smiles?

Cards are always the story in a Derby, but this time it was a minimal amount. Just five in total, all yellow, even if it can easily be argued that Samuel should have been sent off with a second yellow. Cards for Mexes, who was just looking after our friend Maxi Lopez when he challenged Icardi in the 16th, then late cards to De Jong and then Abbiati (for timewasting) filled the tally for this match. (Abbiati will miss Atalanta due to yellow card accumulation.) Oh, and there was the shot from Balotelli in the 78th that was called back for offside because Pazzini helped it along. Or one of my favorite moments when Icardi blocked Kovacic’s shot in the 52nd. I’m still laughing about that one.

Genuine emotion

But I can’t say enough of how amazing this win was, so please enjoy this collection of pics for now that more accurately sums up my emotions today. And hopefully you will also be able to sleep better knowing that the snakes have been eradicated again from the San Siro.