Olivier Giroud admits Milan were poor in the first half, but praises them for ‘never giving up’ as he turned it around with a brace to beat Inter.
It was a Derby della Madonnina of two halves, as the Nerazzurri dominated the opening 45 minutes with an Ivan Perisic cushioned volley and numerous Mike Maignan saves.
After the break, the Rossoneri took the initiative and eventually turned the game around with two Giroud goals in the space of four minutes.
Curiously, this was the debut Milan Derby for both Maignan and Giroud, who were injured last time the derby was played.
Serie A | Inter 1-2 Milan: Giroud and Maignan seal dramatic derby comeback
“As I said before the game, this was a special fixture. You win the derby, we were struggling in the first half, but after the break for 45 minutes we got back into it,” the France international told DAZN.
“I was hoping for one or two balls into the box, the first was a bit lucky, but the second was a fine Calabria pass. I am so happy for my fans, I am proud of this team that never gave up.
“We score goals in the box, so it’s true I was a bit isolated in the first half, but the whole team didn’t play well and we knew that.
“We proved our great team spirit after the break and we are back!”
Inter have seen their lead at the top of the table cut to one point, albeit with a game in hand.
“There’s a long road ahead of us, we are still in the running, but there are many games to be played and Inter remain the leaders. So let’s win our matches and then see what Inter do.”
Step up, Olivier Giroud! ❤️🖤
Two goals in three minutes for Milan’s French striker! pic.twitter.com/F2wDYBUc0f
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) February 5, 2022
Well done, Oli G. Made most of what limited service you had.
Second goal has to be one of the best in Serie A this year. De Vrij is not very often make look like a fool defending…