Inter Milan fought back from a goal down to secure a 1-1 draw against city rivals AC Milan in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final on Wednesday.
Tammy Abraham put Milan ahead shortly after halftime, but Hakan Calhanoglu’s powerful long-range strike in the 67th minute ensured the tie remains evenly balanced ahead of the return leg.
Abraham broke the deadlock in the 47th minute after being set up by Youssouf Fofana on the edge of the box. The English striker maneuvered past Inter’s defense before firing a low shot into the bottom corner.
Inter, playing without injured striker Lautaro Martinez, responded with increased pressure and found their equalizer through Calhanoglu, who expertly converted with a first-time strike from distance.
Both sides had opportunities to take the lead in the closing stages. Inter’s Henrikh Mkhitaryan missed a late chance, while Milan’s Rafael Leao sent a promising effort just wide minutes before the final whistle.
Earlier in the match, Leao had tested Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez with a shot from a tight angle, while at the other end, France keeper Mike Maignan made impressive saves to deny Calhanoglu’s thunderous free kick and Davide Frattesi’s header just before halftime.
Serie A leaders Inter, who face Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals next week, remain in contention for their first treble since 2010. For Milan, currently ninth in Serie A and five points off the European qualification spots, the Coppa Italia represents their best chance of securing European football next season, as the cup winners automatically qualify for the Europa League.
Nine-time winners Inter last lifted the trophy in 2023, while Milan have won the competition five times, with their most recent triumph coming in 2003.
In the other semi-final, Bologna established a commanding 3-0 advantage over Empoli in Tuesday’s first leg.
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