Inter Milan, AC Milan Battle to 1-1 Draw in Perth Friendly

The Milan derby in Perth ended 1-1 in front of 52,310 fans, with new AC Milan coach Ruben Amorim still searching for a maiden victory.

Serie A champions Inter Milan appeared to be claiming the bragging rights after Federico Dimarco's strike from close range in the 52nd minute, the defender pouncing on sluggish AC Milan defending.

But Nkunku was brought down by Carlos Augusto in the 83rd minute before squaring the contest with a superbly taken penalty.

Amorim's reign began with a 2-2 friendly draw against Celtic in Glasgow last month. Fired as Manchester United coach in January, he has been tasked with turning around an ailing AC Milan side that missed out on the Champions League last season.

He will have some concerns his new side were fortunate to escape with a draw following an error-strewn performance.

They will be encouraged by veteran midfield maestro Luka Modric playing the last 30 minutes, having recently signed a one-year extension. Modric started on the bench much to the disappointment of the crowd, with the Croatian receiving loud applause in the warm-up and a big ovation from the terraces when he entered in the 62nd minute.

The match was AC Milan's first since the death of Franco Baresi, who captained the club during a golden era in the 1980s and 1990s. A minute's silence was held before kick-off, with players from both teams linking arms.

AC Milan dominated the early exchanges with teenager Alphadjo Cisse and Samuel Chukwueze, whose future with the club is reportedly uncertain, providing some dash. American Yunus Musah appeared set to break the deadlock in the 18th minute only for his effort to smash into the left post. Inter then took control of possession as the game went through a lull towards half-time.

AC Milan continue their pre-season against Chelsea in Jakarta on Saturday. Inter Milan – who beat Manchester City on penalties in Hong Kong on Saturday – remain in Perth to play Juventus on the same day.