Pulisic Powers AC Milan to Derby Win Over Inter Milan

Christian Pulisic leads AC Milan past Inter Milan in derby thriller

Christian Pulisic once again proved his importance to AC Milan, delivering a decisive goal in a tense Derby della Madonnina to secure a crucial 1-0 victory over Inter Milan. The U.S. international’s performance not only settled one of Serie A’s fiercest rivalries but also underlined why he is considered among the league’s top talents.

Pulisic’s Derby Impact Lifts Milan’s Hopes

From the opening whistle, AC Milan and Inter Milan engaged in a high-stakes, high-intensity battle at San Siro, with both sides chasing vital points in the Serie A title race. Inter dominated early possession, controlling 58% of the ball and outshooting Milan 10-4. Lautaro Martínez came closest for Inter in the first half, hitting the post and keeping Milan’s defense under constant pressure.

However, AC Milan’s resilience was epitomized by goalkeeper Mike Maignan, whose authoritative presence kept the match level during Inter’s spells of dominance. Maignan’s sharp reflexes and confident command of his penalty area gave Milan the foundation they needed to stay in the game.

Christian Pulisic Delivers the Game-Winner

The moment that changed the match arrived in the 55th minute. Mike Maignan launched a quick counterattack with his distribution, setting Alexis Saelemaekers free down the right. Saelemaekers’ shot was well-stopped by Inter’s Yann Sommer, but the rebound fell perfectly for Christian Pulisic. The American attacker reacted instinctively, smashing the loose ball into the net to put Milan ahead.

This goal was not just a testament to Pulisic’s clinical finishing, but also his alertness and ability to seize the moment in big matches. With this strike, Pulisic further cemented his reputation as a big-game player, especially in crucial derbies.

Maignan’s Heroics Preserve Milan’s Lead

Inter Milan, desperate to avoid another derby defeat, pushed energetically for an equalizer. Their golden opportunity arrived in the 71st minute when Strahinja Pavlović fouled Marcus Thuram in the box, earning Inter a penalty. Hakan Çalhanoğlu stepped up, but Maignan guessed correctly, diving to keep out the spot-kick and preserve Milan’s narrow lead.

Maignan’s save was crucial, not only denying Inter a deserved equalizer but also maintaining Milan’s momentum as they chased the three points. The French international finished the match with six saves, each vital to the final outcome.

Pulisic Shines as Milan’s MVP

While Maignan’s heroics were vital, Christian Pulisic rightly claimed the headlines. Beyond his winning goal, Pulisic was a constant threat throughout the match, completing two out of four attempted dribbles and delivering three passes into the final third. His movement stretched Inter’s defense and created space for his teammates, proving why he is quickly becoming one of Serie A’s best attacking players.

Pulisic’s impact on Milan’s season is undeniable. With this win, the Rossoneri move up to second place in the Serie A standings, just two points behind leaders Roma. Pulisic’s form and ability to shine on big occasions have become a cornerstone of Milan’s title push.

Inter’s Missed Opportunity and Key Takeaways

For Inter Milan, the defeat is particularly painful. Despite their strong performance for much of the match, their finishing let them down. Hakan Çalhanoğlu’s penalty miss was especially costly, handing Milan their first derby win in six meetings. Inter now slip to fourth in the table, with pressure mounting as they seek to stay in the title race.

Milan’s compact defensive organization, combined with moments of individual brilliance from Pulisic and Maignan, proved the difference in this fiercely contested encounter.

What This Means For the Serie A Title Race

The victory breathes new life into AC Milan’s Serie A campaign. With just two points separating them from the top, Milan have momentum and belief heading into the next round of fixtures. Christian Pulisic’s influence continues to grow, and if he maintains this form, Milan will be serious contenders for the Scudetto.

Inter, meanwhile, must regroup and address their shortcomings in front of goal. The derby defeat is a blow, but with plenty of matches remaining, the Nerazzurri can still recover if they rediscover their attacking efficiency.

Opinion: Pulisic’s Arrival Has Transformed Milan

Christian Pulisic’s arrival at AC Milan has been a game-changer. His ability to deliver in crucial matches, combined with his technical skill and determination, has elevated the Rossoneri’s attack to new heights. With Maignan providing a solid base at the back and Pulisic offering cutting edge up front, Milan have struck a balance that could be decisive in the title race. For more updates on Serie A and global football, visit our homepage for more news.