Two goals down after the first leg of their Champions League semi-finals game, Milan are facing a battle against history and the odds to overturn their deficit against Inter.
The Rossoneri will take on the Nerazzurri in the fifth Derby della Madonnina of the season, and based on the two teams' performances over the weekend, it looks like Inter are by far the favorites to progress.
Simone Inzaghi's men recorded a 4-2 win over Sassuolo, while Stefano Pioli's troops slumped to a 2-0 defeat to Sassuolo. That result leaves Milan sitting in fifth spot, four points behind Roma, while Inter are in third as they aim to close the gap on second-placed Juventus.
Of concern for Milan and their fans is the fact that they had to make do without key striker Rafael Leao, who has been on the sidelines as he looks to recover from injury.
Leao's absence has been really significant given the huge impact the Portuguese international has had on his side. Not only has he chipped in with 13 goals and ten assists across all competitions, but also Milan overall have had a better outcome - in terms of points picked up and of course, goals scored -when he's been on the pitch.
However, there appears to be some great news. According to reports, the 23-year-old is set to return after shaking off a muscular injury that prevented him from participating last week, and as per his coach, could also be joined by fellow absentee Junior Messias.
This will come as encouraging news for Rossoneri fans, who are hoping to see their team book their spot in their first Champions League final in over a decade.
