Why Milan vs. Inter could be decided by dead ball situations
The statistics point to a worrying strength on one side and weakness on the other, suggesting set plays could be decisive for Milan and Inter in the Derby della Madonnina.
It kicks off at San Siro on Sunday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
This is a Scudetto showdown as well as bitter local rivalry, because Inter are top of the Serie A table and Milan trail in second place, a full 10 points behind.
That in itself is rather remarkable, considering that the Rossoneri have amassed 57 points after 27 rounds, the exact same number that they had at this stage in 2021-22 on their way to winning the title.
At that time, it was enough to put them joint top with Napoli, two points clear of Inter, but now it has them floundering in second place.
Milan weakness is Inter strength
Looking at the statistics, a pattern emerges that makes a goal from dead ball situations a very distinct possibility in this big match.
That is because Inter scored 21 Serie A goals this season from set plays, including 15 alone on corner kicks.
Only Arsenal have been more effective from these situations in Europe’s top five leagues this term.
On the other hand, Inter’s strength also represents Milan’s biggest weakness, because Max Allegri’s side have conceded 50 per cent of all their goals from set plays.
His team let in 20 goals in 27 games, 10 of them were from dead ball situations, five on corners.