Despite getting the better of one of the Milan teams at the San Siro only ten days ago, Andrea Pirlo could not get the better of his former teammate and Inter Milan head coach Antonio Conte in the clash between their two teams.
The 238th Derby d’Italia played out to a decisive conclusion yesterday, as Inter Milan managed to win 2-0 over the reigning Serie A Champions. The defeat saw Juventus fall 7 points behind table-toppers AC Milan, who have also played 17 games.
Nicolo Barella had an outstanding performance on the pitch, assisting Arturo Vidal’s first league goal in six years as Inter took the lead via a header from the Chilean. The 23-year-old later managed to get on the scoresheet himself as a powerful strike from the Italian on the break found the roof of the net, putting the hosts two goals in front.
Cristiano Ronaldo managed to tap in after Federico Chiesa crossed the ball from close range, but the goal was ruled out instantly by the linesman for offside. It was only a minute after this incident that Juventus conceded themselves.
So, while Juventus sit 7 points away from the top of the table, the title race seems to be blown wide open between the two Milan clubs.
But it is well worth considering that though Inter are level on points with their city rivals at the top, they have played an extra game. The Rossoneri will have the chance to extend their lead by three points tonight as they travel to Cagliari in their 18th game of the season.
Napoli and Roma are also lurking in the background, with the Partenopei, as well as La Lupa 6 points behind Milan. Roma have played an extra game, and should Milan win, the gap would stretch to 9 points.
All speculation aside, it is very important to note that we are only almost halfway through the season. With the unpredictability and surprising nature of the ongoing campaign, nothing can be ruled out for being too crazy.
