INTER AND AC Milan played out a dreary 0-0 derby draw on Sunday that encapsulated their respective disappointing seasons in Serie A.
There was a notable lack of quality in attack for both sides, perhaps showcasing how the two giants of Italian football have fallen from grace in recent seasons. That feeling was particularly evident in a first half that provided little in terms of goalmouth action, although Milan did see Alex have a goal ruled out for offside.
Inter, the designated hosts, improved after the break and Rodrigo Palacio had a goal of his own disallowed, before Roberto Mancini’s men had penalty claims against Luca Antonelli turned away.
Milan’s Philippe Mexes had his blushes spared with just under 20 minutes remaining when he turned into his own net, only for a foul off the ball to curtail Inter’s celebrations.
But the contest ended in a goalless draw, arguably as much as either side deserved as the full-time whistle was met with frustrated whistles from the stands.
A draw means that Milan stay one place and one point above their rivals in ninth.
Once the giants of European football with names such as Cafu, Pirlo, Nesta, Seedorf, Maldini and Shevchenko in their ranks, Milan’s current squad is illustrative of their free fall into the footballing wilderness.
Their cross-city rivals are similarly pining for the glory days as they flounder in mid-table. Nemanja Vidic is about the only recognisable name on their team-sheet presently with former Cardiff enforcer Gary Medel acting as their midfield terrier.
It’s a far cry from those titanic battles between the pair as the world’s best players went head-to-head with Scudettos on the line.
