Spotlight falls on San Siro

The eyes of the football world will be on the San Siro tonight when AC Milan face Internazionale FC in a local derby that will have pulses racing far beyond the confines of Italy's fashion capital.

So much at stake
The 254th Milan derby is only the second occasion two sides from the same city have met at this advanced stage of Europe's premier club competition. At stake are much more than bragging rights: a place in the UEFA Champions League final at Old Trafford awaits the winner.

The here and now
Real Madrid CF defeated Club Atlético de Madrid in the last four en route to winning the 1959 European Champion Clubs' Cup but for the two teams tonight the only thoughts will be about the here and now and getting through this much-anticipated semi-final.

Previous wins
Both clubs know all about European Cup success: Inter were champions twice in the 1960s, while five-times winners Milan lifted the trophy in the 1960s, 80s and 90s. Milan won both the sides' Serie A meetings this season by a 1-0 scoreline and defeat for either side will smart doubly under the European spotlight.

Maldini equals record
A special occasion already will have extra significance still for Milan veteran Paolo Maldini who tonight equals Giuseppe Bergomi's record of 44 derby appearances and, fitness permitting, will surpass it in next Tuesday's second leg.
 
uefa.com will bring you live audio and text commentary of tonight's match as well as an in-depth match report and post-match review featuring video highlights.