Resurgent Milan eye derby delight 9-Mar-2007



FC Internazionale Milano may be dominating the Serie A title race but
Sunday's derby with AC Milan has taken on a new complexion following the
clubs' contrasting fortunes in the UEFA Champions League this week.

*Changing mood*
The Nerazzurri remain odds-on favourites to clinch a 15th Scudetto having
established a 16-point cushion over second-placed AS Roma. They are a
massive 30 points clear of neighbours Milan, yet the mood in the two camps
completely changed in the space of 24 hours when Inter's elimination at the
hands Valencia CF on Tuesday was followed by the Rossoneri's extra-time win
over Celtic FC.

*'Extraordinary season'*
Despite Inter's record-breaking form in domestic competition, they failed to
overcome a resolute Valencia side, crashing out on away goals. However,
coach Roberto Mancini is refusing to be drawn into a debate about the
strength of his team, saying: "This elimination will not ruin a season that
remains extraordinary."

*Milan improvement*
Milan, meanwhile, started their campaign with an eight-point deduction, but
after a difficult first half of the season finally seem on the right track.
They have won eight of their last ten Serie A games and are three points off
fourth place and a UEFA Champions League berth. After Kaká's late goal
sealed a slender victory against Celtic, coach Carlo Ancelotti said: "Milan
can challenge anyone out there, no exceptions."

*Ronaldo return*
The derby will have extra spice as Ancelotti is expected to field Ronaldo
against his former club. The Brazilian striker was a popular figure among
Inter fans before he moved to Spain and Real Madrid CF, but his decision to
return to Italy in the colours of Milan has angered many. Nerazzurri
president Massimo Moratti described the transfer as "in bad taste", though
Ronaldo insists the pair continue to enjoy a good relationship.

*'Deep affection'*
"I understand his criticism," Ronaldo said. "He had to say those things
about my transfer - it was inevitable. In private, however, it is different
and I have a deep affection for him." The Derby della Madonnina will be
Ronaldo's first match against Inter since leaving in 2002. Should he score
the winner for Milan, the week would turn from bad to worse for the Inter
supporters.




--
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Ciao... CENTENARY... 9 March 2008!!!


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