Milanese Showdown: Inter vs. AC Milan - The Derby della Madonnina
Mark your calendars and clear your schedules! This upcoming clash on November 23, 2025, at the iconic Stadio Giuseppe Meazza isn't just any match-it's the Derby della Madonnina. With only two points separating these fierce rivals at the top of the Serie A table, Inter stands at 24 points, while AC Milan is close behind with 22. Each side's quest for glory intensifies as they vie for dominance in this high-stakes encounter.
Predicted Lineups
Expect both teams to stick with their recent formations: Inter: GK: Yann Sommer, DEF: Alessandro Bastoni, Stefan de Vrij, Manuel Akanji, MID: Denzel Dumfries, Federico Dimarco, Piotr Zieliński, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Nicolò Barella, FWD: Lautaro Martínez and Francesco Pio Esposito. AC Milan: GK: Mike Maignan, DEF: Strahinja Pavlović, Matteo Gabbia, Fikayo Tomori, MID: Davide Bartesaghi, Samuele Ricci, Luka Modrić, Youssouf Fofana and Alexis Saelemaekers, FWD: Rafael Leão and Santiago Giménez.
The build-up to this matchup couldn't be more electrifying. Inter comes off an impressive run of victories-including a convincing 2-0 win over Lazio and a solid performance against Kairat Almaty in the UEFA Champions League. On the other hand, AC Milan has shown resilience but faces pressure after back-to-back draws against lower-ranked opponents-1-1 at Atalanta and 2-2 at Parma last week. This disjointed form could spell trouble when facing a well-oiled machine like Inter.
As we dive deeper into how these teams stack up statistically before kickoff, let's break down what this rivalry really means in terms of tactics and player performances.
Tactical Breakdown
Inter has established itself as a dominant force this season. Their formation allows fluidity in attack while maintaining defensive solidity. In their last five matches across competitions:
- They've maintained a staggering ball possession average of approximately 64%, coupled with an impressive pass accuracy hovering around 86%. This dominance means they dictate play effectively.
- Outshooting opponents by an average of nearly double in total shots (11+ per game compared to others), they also boast a conversion rate that shows promise with players like Lautaro Martínez leading the charge with 12 goals this season.
Meanwhile, AC Milan has had some ups and downs recently but remains unpredictable-a classic underdog narrative in this derby setup:
- Though currently sitting third in Serie A standings after winning six games out of eleven played so far this season-and averaging possession rates slightly below Inter-they still know how to pounce on opportunities. Their expected goals (xG) from recent fixtures suggest they're knocking on the door despite sometimes lacking clinical finishing.
- A key figure has been Rafael Leão who has been lively upfront; he netted five goals already this season and will need support from teammates like Samuele Ricci if they are to dismantle Inter's resolute defense.
With all eyes on the tactical nuances between these two sides-how can each exploit its rival's weaknesses? For Inter's backline led by Bastoni and de Vrij-conceding just one goal over their last three Serie A matches-they need to keep tabs on quick transitions initiated by Leão or Chukwueze down Milan's flanks.
On the flip side, if Milan intends to press higher up the pitch against an Inter side that likes playing through buildup phases-expect them to challenge those central midfield areas where inter's Nicolò Barella thrives-or risk getting caught out as Inter looks to counter quickly using their wingers Dumfries and Dimarco.
Players To Watch
Lautaro Martínez has emerged as a beacon of hope for Inter this season-with his mix of skillful dribbling paired with precision finishing making him a constant threat against any opponent. After contributing a handful of goals recently while leading his team's attacking front line into battle-his relationship with midfield orchestrators such as Çalhanoğlu will be pivotal against AC Milan's stifling defense.
On AC Milan's end? Keep your eyes peeled for Rafael Leão-the man whose pace can turn any situation on its head-backed by creativity from Luka Modrić who brings experience amidst youthful exuberance within their ranks; it'll be crucial for both strikers to find pockets within Inter's dense framework if they are looking towards pulling off an upset here!
Final Predictions
In summary? Both clubs enter this monumental clash determined not just for bragging rights but crucial title implications too! Statistically speaking:
- If we look closely at recent performances; each team demonstrates unique strengths-Inter brings robust attacking firepower along with exceptional ball retention skills contrasted against AC Milan's moments of flair riding upon their squad depth!
Can consistency reign supreme over unpredictability? Will Inter manage another masterclass or might Milan disrupt those plans while striking early? Based on everything analyzed above-and given the momentum built upon recent wins alongside superior statistics backing them-I'm tipping Inter to edge past their city rivals! Perhaps expect a narrow victory punctuated by impactful moments courtesy of Lautaro Martínez-a familiar dance he seems destined to lead throughout another remarkable showdown between these historic foes!