Sergio Conceicao didn’t allow himself many celebrations during last night’s win over Inter, perhaps a reflection of his situation.
Today’s Corriere dello Sport recalls how – when Luka Jovic doubled the score early in the second half – Conceiçao raised his arms to the sky. It was only for a moment though, before returning to the ‘sad’ expression (but concentrated) of the last few weeks. There is no cigar this time.
The Portuguese got to another final, he came out undefeated from the Milan derbies and earned a portion of that respect that was often not given to him, at least in his mind. In short he lived an evening of small and large personal revenge.
The lack of respect, after all, is almost a contract. When you accept a six-month deal to get back into the top four in the league but end up ninth, and then you exit the Champions League to Feyenoord, you inevitably lose consensus. It is the law results above all and everyone that governs Milan.
Even Simone Inzaghi, who last night suffered his second very significant defeat in a row – unprecedented this season – will be criticised disrespectfully by some. It is part of the sport, one that does not forgive falls and reduces alibis.
In their 51st outing of a long season, Inter tried to win, especially in the first half when they played better than Milan, but without finishing effectively. From the first real shot, Jovic broke the deadlock and from that moment on the Rossoneri took command.
The final on May 14 will be contested between Conceiçao, who has nine domestic cups as a coach, and Vincenzo Italiano, who has been to four finals in a row. That is, unless Empoli do something special tonight.
