The Italian Super Cup final at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh delivered a spectacle of high drama and emotional roller coasters, as AC Milan achieved a remarkable comeback to defeat their city rivals, Inter Milan, 3-2. This clash not only showcased the resilience and skill of the Milan squad but also demonstrated the tactical acumen of their newly appointed manager, Serge Conceicao. The match was characterized by intense competition, unexpected twists, and moments that will be etched in the memories of fans for years to come.
From the outset, Inter appeared to be in command, striking first with a goal that left Milan reeling. With just minutes to play in the first half, Lautaro Martínez took advantage of a defensive lapse, scoring with a deft shot that slipped through the hands of AC Milan’s goalkeeper, Mike Maignan. Just moments after the teams resumed play, Inter doubled their lead with a beautifully executed goal by Mehdi Taremi, who showcased exceptional control before curling a shot into the bottom corner. At this point, it seemed as though the match would end in favor of Inter, who were on course to secure their fourth consecutive Super Cup title.
However, Milan’s fortunes began to shift dramatically when manager Serge Conceicao made crucial changes, most notably introducing Rafael Leão off the bench. His impact was immediate, as he won a free kick just outside the penalty area. Theo Hernández took a low shot that found its way past Inter’s Yann Sommer, rekindling hopes for the Roja and blacks. With a goal under their belt, Milan suddenly appeared rejuvenated, consistently probing the Inter defense and creating scoring opportunities.
The substitutes continued to excel, and with ten minutes left on the clock, U.S. international Christian Pulisic made his mark. Captured amid multiple defenders, he skillfully controlled a cross and found the far corner of the net, leveling the score and dramatically shifting the momentum in Milan’s favor. Now, the match was poised for a thrilling conclusion, reminiscent of classic rivalries steeped in history and passion.
As the clock ticked down, both teams sensed the urgency and urgency turned into tireless efforts on the pitch. Milan continued to press for a winner, and with a collective sense of belief and hunger, their pressure paid dividends. In the dying moments, a well-executed play unfolded as Leão skillfully pulled the ball back across the goal, allowing Tammy Abraham, another substitute, to score the decisive goal with a simple tap-in. The noise emanating from the Milan supporters was electrifying, while disbelief washed over the Inter players who collapsed in despair on the grass.
This goal not only gave AC Milan the lead but also solidified the triumph of a team that had refused to accept defeat. The victory was particularly poignant for Conceicao, who was celebrating his first piece of silverware since taking over the managerial reins from Paulo Fonseca just days earlier. Following the match, he emphasized the character of his team, reflecting on the importance of making strategic adjustments: “At half-time, the coach has to change certain things, that’s why they pay me,” he noted, demonstrating his awareness of the tactical nuances that can decide the outcome of such high-stakes matches.
This victory in the Italian Super Cup marks a pivotal moment for AC Milan, allowing the club to equal Inter’s tally of eight wins in the prestigious competition. The result not only cements Milan’s status as a formidable force in Italian football but also symbolizes a new chapter under Conceicao’s guidance. As fans celebrate this thrilling comeback, the narrative of teamwork, determination, and unwavering belief resonates loudly, promising an exciting season ahead for AC Milan.