Inter Milan eye derby turning point after Lecce win

Scudetto momentum builds as Chivu balances title charge and European comeback

After the victory in Lecce and the slip of their city rivals at San Siro,Milan are no longer just leading the race. They are dictating its tempo.

As Il Giornale via Fcinter1908 observes, the upcoming return derby arrives earlier than it did two years ago, when only five rounds remained. 

This time, even if Inter Milan were to triumph in early March, around ten matchdays would still stretch ahead. 

The arithmetic title celebration will not come that soon. Yet logic, calm and relentless, suggests that if Cristian Chivu’s side navigate that derby unscathed, the Scudetto would tilt decisively in their direction.

The advantage over AC Milan is already substantial. Not decorative. Structural.

Numbers underline the authority of Inter Milan’s march: 21 wins in 26 matches, 13 victories in the last 14 outings, six consecutive league triumphs, and nine straight away wins. 

The attack has been symphonic and ruthless, producing 62 league goals. Lautaro Martinez leads the scoring charts with 14 goals, captaining the offensive charge with sharp instincts and relentless movement.

European Test Awaits Inter Milan

Yet for all the domestic dominance, Europe has been a different storm system. Inter Milan have lost four of their last five Champions League matches. The competition does not forgive lapses. The first leg against FK Bodo/Glimt was a harsh reminder.

Now, Cristian Chivu prepares the decisive return leg with conviction. The comeback is not labeled impossible within the camp. 

On the contrary, belief is being sharpened daily at the training ground. But belief alone is insufficient. Inter Milan must rediscover their best European version.

There will be no rotation this time. Chivu is expected to deploy the strongest available lineup, starting with Federico Dimarco. 

His presence changes geometry on the left flank. His left foot bends matches. Going without it in Norway, especially while also lacking the right foot of Hakan Calhanoglu, proved costly.

Domestically, Inter Milan’s defense is not the league’s best, and that department is considered the most adjustable area for summer reinforcements. But in Serie A, the machine runs with precision. In Europe, it must roar rather than hum.

The derby looms as a psychological crossroads in the Scudetto race. The Champions League playoff stands as an immediate trial by fire. Inter Milan stride forward on two tightropes at once, balancing ambition and pressure, arithmetic and adrenaline.

If they pass the derby safely, the title will feel inevitable.
If they overturn Bodo/Glimt, the season will feel limitless.