Former AC Milan and Inter forward, Hernan Crespo, granted an interview to La Gazzetta dello Sport in today's edition. The Argentinian former player spoke about the Coppa Italia derby in view of the semi-final second leg. Here are his words:
"I would say that we play a lot more, definitely. At this point of the season, with the two teams separated by two points in the standings and five days to go, this coming derby could also have an effect on the championship fight."
Who has the most to gain?
"Milan, for two reasons. First, because the opportunity to raise a trophy would put the guys of Pioli in front of a logical goal for the path they have taken, the cycles open up by starting to win and this is the moment. Second (reason), there is the charge that a success, or the passing of the round, given that you can go forward even with a draw, can leave in the legs and heads of the players in a derby. eliminating the Nerazzurri from the Cup can give Milan the right momentum for the final sprint, and cause some certainty among Inzaghi's men to fade", said Crespo.
On the moment of the two teams:
"Inzaghi found the geometries and balances that only Brozovic can guarantee and the team got back into motion. Milan did not have any real empty periods, but rather some braking. The game was never lacking, there were no goals and with Genoa they finally arrived. At the derby, the Rossoneri and the Nerazzurri are on par, it will be a spectacular showdown."
Crespo on Rafael Leao:
"He returned to scoring just before the derby and it is an excellent sign. Now he lacks the last step, to be able to score with a goal even in a match like the derby."
On Olivier Giroud:
"Without Ibra, up front it's up to Giroud to play the part of Zlatan and drag his teammates to a deserved success. We are talking about a winner who is used to leaving his mark on big matches, Giroud is one of those players who live for matches like this. And for goals like Milan's this year."
