Milan's first-half demolition of Inter

There's something almost rude about ending a derby's suspense by half-time, but that's exactly what Milan did at San Siro on 31 October. Christian Pulisic, Adrien Rabiot and Diego Moreira all got on the scoresheet in the opening 45 minutes, and by the time Inter dragged one back, the contest had already been decided.

A first half with no mercy

Milan's start was the kind that resets a city's bragging rights for months. Three goals from three different players in one half of derby football doesn't happen by accident, and according to BBC Sport, Milan were ruthless in front of goal while Inter struggled to find any foothold in midfield. Inter's response in the second half, a consolation goal, barely dented the scoreline.

Pulisic back among the goals

Christian Pulisic opening the scoring matters beyond the three points. The American winger has been central to Allegri's attacking plans this season, and this derby strike is exactly the kind of moment that reminds Serie A why Milan built around him.

Rabiot and Moreira add the weight

Adrien Rabiot's goal gave Milan the kind of midfield punch that's been a feature of Allegri's side this season, while Diego Moreira rounding off the first-half salvo showed depth beyond the headline names. Three different scorers before the break is the sort of spread Allegri will want to see more of as the season goes on.

What it means for the city

The Derby della Madonnina carries weight regardless of league position, but doing it with a first-half demolition sends a different kind of message. Inter will have the rest of the season to answer back, but for now Milan have the bragging rights, the points, and a performance that Football Italia's pre-match line-ups suggested nobody saw fully coming.