Gianni Rivera believes Alessandria “can progress” against Milan in the Coppa Italia but they’ll need “a miracle”.
The former midfielder played for both sides in the 50s and 60s, making his Serie A debut for Alessandria at just 15.
“Certainly no-one would have imagined a match like this,” Rivera told UEFA’s official website.
“It’s difficult for a Lega Pro side to get to the end in the Coppa Italia, but Alessandria have been able to overcome that, getting past every obstacle.
Gianni Rivera believes Alessandria “can progress” against Milan in the Coppa Italia but they’ll need “a miracle”.
The former midfielder played for both sides in the 50s and 60s, making his Serie A debut for Alessandria at just 15.
“Certainly no-one would have imagined a match like this,” Rivera told UEFA’s official website.
“It’s difficult for a Lega Pro side to get to the end in the Coppa Italia, but Alessandria have been able to overcome that, getting past every obstacle.
“What did I feel wearing those shirts? Pride, definitely. My debuts for Milan and Alessandria were unforgettable moments, very important for me because I was so young.
“With Alessandria I wasn’t even 16, and I’d just turned 17 at Milan. Wonderful feelings that I remember with great pleasure, and that I’ll carry with me forever.
“This semi-final brings me pleasure, because it means the teams I played for are moving in the right direction.
“After that, whoever wins will be the team which does best on the pitch and earns their place in the final.
“Alessandria? If they got here then there’s no doubt they can progress. Of course, it’s difficult because now they’re facing a top club like Milan.
“If they get past this obstacle, we can safely talk about a miracle.”
Rivera was then asked who he’ll be supporting in the two-legged semi-final, the first match of which is tomorrow.
“Alessandria, because they’re the less-fancied team and it would be an incredible achievement if they got through.
“But if that happens then I want Milan to get into next year’s Champions League through the League.”