Key Injuries, Predicted Lineups & Match Preview for the Crucial Milan Derby on April 23.
In the last Milan derby of the season, Inter Milan and AC Milan are ready to lock horns for a spot in the Coppa Italia final. Fans will expect a thrilling encounter in the Coppa Italia semi-final second leg at San Siro. In the first leg, the two teams ended the clash with a 1-1 draw, leaving it all to be decided in the Derby della Madonnina.
Both clubs are aiming to bounce back from weekend defeats in this game. A place in the final is at stake and bragging rights are on the line. Added to that, this clash could define each team’s campaign as they are determined to end the season with silverware.
A derby with a ticket to the final up for grabs. It's matchday, Rossoneri ⚽#InterMilan #SempreMilan #CoppaItaliaFrecciarossa pic.twitter.com/R9J98yo1wi
— AC Milan (@acmilan) April 23, 2025
Wednesday’s derby not only determines who reaches the Coppa Italia final, but also impacts both sides’ European ambitions. The winner will face either Bologna or Empoli in the final. However, considering Bologna are entering their semi-final second leg with a 3-goal lead, they have the upper hand.
Inter Milan are still hunting a treble and are aiming to win after a four-game winless streak. Meanwhile, for AC Milan, this competition represents a realistic route back to European football amid a disappointing league campaign. Having already won the Supercoppa Italiana this season, Milan seek another trophy.
Simone Inzaghi faces squad management challenges ahead of a packed schedule, including a crucial Champions League semi. Piotr Zielinski and Denzel Dumfries remain sidelined, while Marcus Thuram is a major doubt. Joaquin Correa could continue up front, with Taremi and Arnautovic remaining as options.
Lautaro Martinez missed the first leg but he is only one goal away from derby history, so he may return. Mhitaryan and Bastoni have Serie A suspensions to serve. However, they are eligible to play this match. Coach Inzaghi must rotate carefully with Roma and Barcelona fixtures looming in a compact schedule.
J. Martinez; Bastoni, De Vrij, Pavard; Augusto, Mkhitaryan, Calhanoglu, Frattesi, Darmian; L. Martinez, Correa
Also Read: UCL Semi-Final Schedule 2025: When is the UEFA Champions League Semi-Finals?
Sergio Conceicao’s injury list has improved. Santiago Gimenez has come back to training but will likely spend the game on the bench. Luka Jovic and Tammy Abraham are set to lead the front line in the 3-4-3 setup. Meanwhile Conceicao may persist with youngster Alex Jimenez at the right wing-back position.
Kyle Walker has resumed training post-elbow surgery. However, he may not have to spend this game on the bench, while Emerson Royal still remains out. Milan’s defence is still a concern. They’ve only been able to keep one clean sheet in their last 10 home games. Hence, the back will need special enforcing against an in-form Lautaro Martinez.
Maignan; Pavlovic, Gabbia, Tomori; Hernandez, Reijnders, Fofana, Jimenez; Leao, Abraham, Pulisic
soccer Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.
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