Milan secured their first league double against rivals Inter since the 2010/11 season, a crucial victory that has reignited their title aspirations. Inter’s impressive 15-game unbeaten streak in Serie A, during which they collected 43 out of a possible 45 points, was dramatically halted by Sunday’s Derby della Madonnina defeat.
With just ten matches left, a seven-point gap separates league leaders Inter from second-placed Milan, keeping the Scudetto race alive and promising a thrilling conclusion to the season.
Can Inter Hold On?
Last season, Inter found themselves in a similar position, leading the league after 28 games. However, they only managed to secure 20 out of a possible 30 points in their final ten matches, ultimately losing the title to Napoli. A year later, the scenario is familiar. With ten fixtures remaining, they once again top the table, but now with a more substantial seven-point cushion.
Inter’s deep run to the Champions League final last year likely impacted their domestic form. This season, securing their 21st Scudetto will undoubtedly be the primary objective. Their upcoming schedule presents significant challenges, with three of their next four matches being particularly tough: home games against Atalanta and Roma, followed by an away fixture at Como. The final day’s away fixture could also prove crucial, as Christian Chivu’s squad will face Bologna, a team vying for a European spot.
Milan’s Scudetto Hopes
Ahead of the derby, Massimiliano Allegri emphasized to the media that Milan’s sole focus was on their own performance. He stated to DAZN: “We have to think about ourselves more than about the Serie A title race. We focus on ourselves and on our objective.” Navigating a title race requires significant experience, and those who have previously triumphed understand the intense pressure involved.
Milan’s remaining ten matches feature tough encounters, including an away trip to Napoli and home games against Juventus and Atalanta. Milan will conclude their league campaign at home at the San Siro against Cagliari.
Statistical analysts Opta heavily favor Inter, assigning them a 93.54% probability of securing the Scudetto. Based on expected points for the rest of the season, Inter is projected to finish with 86.99 points, with Milan trailing significantly at 78.32. Despite their two derby victories, Milan’s hopes hinge on Inter experiencing a considerable dip in form while they themselves maintain near-perfect results. Currently, Inter appears poised to avoid regretting missed opportunities from players like Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Federico Dimarco.
