AC Milan faces a critical derby match this weekend against league leaders Inter Milan. A victory is essential for second-placed Milan to maintain any realistic chance of challenging for the Serie A title, as they trail Inter by 10 points.
Milan has enjoyed recent dominance in the derby, remaining undefeated in the last six encounters with four wins. However, Inter has been in formidable form, dropping only two points in their last 15 games to extend their lead at the top. Milan, conversely, has let seven points slip in their most recent six matches.
While Milan has fewer league losses than Inter, a high number of draws has hampered their title aspirations. A stalemate in Sunday's derby would offer little advantage to a team playing catch-up.
"In derbies there are no favourites," stated Milan defender Strahinja Pavlovic. "The derby is a story in itself. Nothing is over yet. There are 11 games left and the important thing is to stay united and give our best until the last minute."
Inter will be without injured striker Lautaro Martinez, while Milan defender Matteo Gabbia is out for a month following surgery. A win for Inter would extend their lead to 13 points with 10 games remaining, putting them in a strong position to secure the title.