Before Coppa Italia, AC Milan suffered another disappointing loss in Serie A on Monday (April 21, 2025), falling 1-0 to Atalanta. This defeat further complicates the Rossoneri’s hopes of qualifying for European competitions next season. With only a few matches left in the league, Milan now faces an uphill battle to secure a spot in Europe.
Rafael Leão, Mіlаn’ѕ ѕtаr fоrwаrd, expressed hіѕ frustration оvеr thе tеаm’ѕ lack оf соnѕіѕtеnсу.
Despite their recent struggles, the Portuguese player remains hopeful that the Coppa Italia semifinal match against Inter Milan later this week could be the catalyst for change.
Leão views the upcoming Derby della Madonnina, scheduled for Thursday, April 24, 2025, as Milan’s last chance to salvage their season. A win in this crucial match would not only send them to the Coppa Italia final but also offer a lifeline to European football by securing a place in the Europa League.
Leão’s Frustration Over Milan’s Inconsistent Form
Rafael Leão appeared visibly frustrated as he reflected on yet another underwhelming performance by Milan. Despite a resounding 4-0 victory over Atalanta the previous week, playing with the same tactics and starting lineup, Milan reverted to a disappointing result. The lone goal from Ederson sealed their fate, leaving them stuck in ninth place in the standings, a far cry from their early-season ambitions.
“It’s hard to explain,” Leão confessed when speaking to SBOTOP after the match. “Sometimes we play well and don’t win, other times we play badly and still manage to win. I honestly can’t explain it.”
This inconsistency has plagued Milan for much of the season, making it difficult for the team to build momentum. Leão, known for his sharp focus on the field, now finds himself questioning what exactly is preventing Milan from reaching their full potential.
Hope Lies in the Coppa Italia
With the league title now out of reach, Coppa Italia has become Milan’s last hope for silverware this season. The first leg of their semifinal against Inter ended in a 1-1 draw, meaning the return match at San Siro will be a decisive encounter.
Leão emphasized how crucial the match against Inter will be, calling it an opportunity for Milan to turn their season around. The 24-year-old forward is determined to give everything in the upcoming Derby della Madonnina, making it clear that this is more than just another match—it’s a defining moment for the club’s future.
“We have to give everything to win, reach the final, and make our fans proud,” Leão asserted. “This is a derby, there’s no need for many words. We must start with the determination to win and the belief that we can lift this trophy.”
Leão Reflects on Milan’s Positive Results Against Inter
Milan does have some positive memories from their encounters with Inter this season. The Rossoneri pulled off a remarkable 3-2 comeback win in the Supercoppa Italiana. The result overcoming a two-goal deficit to claim the title. Leão is confident that his team can repeat that success in the upcoming semifinal, despite the challenges they’ve faced in recent weeks.
“This is an important match that could change our season,” Leão continued. “We have one last opportunity to turn everything around.”
The confidence in his voice suggests that, despite Milan’s struggles. As Leão and his teammates believe they can still achieve something significant in this tumultuous season. If they manage to overcome Inter, not only would they secure a spot in the final. But they would also restore some much-needed pride and confidence to a team. So that has endured its fair share of disappointment this year.
Milan’s Motivation, A Final Push for Glory at Coppa Italia
Milan’s hopes for the remainder of the season now rest heavily on the upcoming Coppa Italia semifinal. A victory over Inter would be more than just a step towards another cup final—it would also serve as a much-needed morale boost and a chance for the players to redeem themselves after a season marked by inconsistency.
For Leão, the stakes could not be higher. A win would not only propel Milan into the Coppa Italia final but could also secure a European spot. So either through the Europa League or as a reward for their cup run. The Rossoneri must approach this crucial match with everything they have, with their pride and future aspirations on the line.
With their backs against the wall, Milan’s players, led by Leão, will need to summon their best performances in the Derby della Madonnina. A victory would breathe new life into a season that has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. And could ultimately determine the club’s direction for the coming year.
As the pressure mounts, Milan’s last chance for silverware and European qualification lies in their hands. The Coppa Italia final is within reach, but it all depends on how they perform in this crucial semifinal against their city rivals.
With high hopes and determination, AC Milan will go into the derby against Inter not just aiming for victory. But also seeking redemption and a chance to end the season on a high note. The stakes could not be higher, and Leão and his teammates know that this match could make or break their season.
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