AC Milan orchestrated one of the most remarkable comebacks in Italian Super Cup history, overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat arch-rivals Inter Milan 3-2 in a thrilling final in Saudi Arabia. The dramatic victory, sealed by Tammy Abraham’s stoppage-time winner, handed new manager Sergio Conceição his first trophy at the helm of the Rossoneri.
What began as a nightmare for Milan, with Inter racing to a 2-0 lead through Lautaro Martinez’s injury-time strike in the first half and Mehdi Taremi’s goal early in the second period, transformed into an unforgettable triumph. The comeback showcased Milan’s resilience and marked a significant shift in the rivalry’s recent dynamic, preventing Inter from claiming their fourth consecutive Super Cup title.
The turnaround began in the 52nd minute when Theo Hernandez breathed life into Milan’s challenge with a crucial goal. The momentum continued to build until Christian Pulisic, one of Milan’s former Chelsea contingent, leveled the scores with just ten minutes remaining. The stage was then set for Abraham, another Chelsea alumnus, to write his name into Milan folklore with a dramatic 93rd-minute winner.
The victory carries historical significance beyond the immediate celebration, bringing Milan level with Inter on eight Italian Super Cup titles. Both Milan giants now sit just one trophy behind Juventus’s record of nine titles in the competition, adding another chapter to their storied rivalry.
For Conceição, who took over the managerial reins at Milan this season, the victory represents a perfect start to his trophy collection with the club. The Portuguese tactician’s tactical adjustments and inspiring leadership proved crucial in orchestrating the comeback, despite missing key players like injured Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze.
The match itself encapsulated the essence of the Milan derby’s intensity and unpredictability. Inter’s early dominance, highlighted by Martinez’s clinical finish and Taremi’s smart goal, seemed to have put them in an unassailable position. However, Milan’s refusal to surrender, coupled with the impact of their former Premier League stars, turned what appeared to be a routine victory into a historic collapse for the Serie A champions.
This triumph not only provides Milan with silverware but also offers valuable momentum as they continue their campaign across multiple competitions. The mental strength displayed in overcoming such a deficit against their fiercest rivals could prove invaluable in future challenges.
The dramatic nature of the victory, particularly with Abraham’s last-gasp winner, adds another memorable moment to the rich tapestry of Milan derby history. It also serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football, where no lead is truly safe and glory can be snatched from the jaws of defeat in the most dramatic fashion.
