Few fixtures in world football evoke emotions as deeply as this one. The city of Milan splits – red and black on one side, blue and black on the other – but beyond the city's borders, this rivalry carries weight across continents. Perhaps no more so than here in Melbourne, where Italian roots run deep.

If you’re a calcio fanatic, used to seeing star-studded lineups filled with legendary players on both sides – from icons like Paolo Maldini and Javier Zanetti to global superstars like Ronaldo, Baggio, Kaká, and even those who’ve crossed the divide, like Zlatan Ibrahimović – you understand the gravity of this game. The lineup of extraordinary talent stretches on and on. That’s the level of these two clubs in football history. Today, it’s Rafael Leão and Nicolò Barella providing the magic on the pitch and leading their sides, with both players keenly aware of the significance that hangs over this match.

The San Siro currently sits quietly in wait – a calm before a wave of noise and color takes over the area. Soon, fans from both sides will gather, savoring a salamella panino and espresso, taking in the atmosphere at one of the world’s great stadiums. The question hangs in the air: Who will earn the bragging rights for the months to come?

Meanwhile, the Curva Sud and Curva Nord will be busy preparing to turn the stadium into a living, breathing organism of football passion. With excitement building across the globe, we conducted a shoot and interview with AC Milan fans Paul, his two kids, Gianluca and Ilaria, and fellow Milan Club Melbourne member Annie, who feel the passion from thousands of miles away, right here in Melbourne.

For Annie, being a part of the Milan Club Melbourne has created a sense of belonging within the global Rossoneri family. "I feel like I am part of a community. The leaders at the club make it such a fun atmosphere to be a part of, from the engaging Instagram posts to the WhatsApp group community and the live games and events." 

She adds that the sense of camaraderie within the club makes watching the matches even more special. "The community truly is an authentic and passionate group. It feels like we are a part of the atmosphere at the San Siro."

Annie also recalls one of her favorite memories with the group. "Close games are always the best. Being surrounded by passionate fans watching the game in the early hours of the morning with a cappuccino at Brunetti’s is an iconic experience."

Paul, a father of two and a lifelong AC Milan supporter, recalls his first encounter with the club – an unforgettable memory wrapped in triumph on one of the greatest nights in European football history. "I’ve loved watching football from a young age," he begins. "But the moment that truly cemented my love for Milan was the 1994 Champions League Final. When AC Milan crushed Barcelona, it meant everything. I’ve been a devoted fan for over 30 years."

For Paul, Milan isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifelong bond. His connection to the club is unshakeable, and he now shares this with his family.

Paul’s wife, Liana, explains how AC Milan has brought their family closer. "Sharing the same passion and getting excited for the matches together has been amazing," she says. "We make time for the games, and whether they win or lose, it’s a way for us to connect."

Their children have embraced the lifestyle, and when asked who their favorite player is, the answer is immediate: "Theo Hernández! He’s incredible, and he’s scored some amazing goals." Paul fondly recalls the first match they watched together as a family – AC Milan’s 1-0 victory over Lazio in 2019. "That was a special day. We were all ecstatic, and it’s a moment we’ll never forget," he says.

For Liana, one of her most cherished moments came this year when they met the Milan squad in Perth during a friendly against Roma. "Meeting the team in person was unreal. It’s something I’ll hold close to my heart forever."

Beyond their personal memories, the family is deeply connected with the Milan Club Melbourne community, much like Annie, who describes it as a space where true passion comes alive. "It’s absolutely fantastic! It’s great to be able to watch and share the passion with fellow supporters. The club also has a direct link with AC Milan and has given members many opportunities to watch games at the San Siro. It’s amazing," Paul explains. 

For the kids, there’s one dream match they long to see: "A Serie A game against Inter at the San Siro." It’s the pinnacle for any Milan supporter, and with the Derby della Madonnina approaching, excitement is building among the club's members.

But Paul’s family doesn’t just wait for match day to show their devotion. "We’re always singing the chants," he laughs. "We pretend we’re in the stadium, keeping that Milan energy alive every day."

When Milan wins, the house erupts in celebration. "We celebrate hard!" Paul says with a grin. "It makes our whole week. We constantly watch the goals and the highlights over and over again." The kids cherish these moments: "We give Papa and Mama big hugs, chant the Milan songs, and have a great time." These heartfelt rituals carry the family through the highs and lows of football fandom, creating memories that last a lifetime.

For Paul, passing down his love for the club to his children is a point of immense pride. "It means the world to me that they share the same passion I’ve had my whole life. Maybe one day, they’ll pass it down to their kids. Being this passionate can be tough sometimes, but through thick and thin, we always support our club. Forza Rossoneri!" 

As the Derby della Madonnina draws closer, anticipation fills the air for members of the Milan Club Melbourne. It’s more than just a match. For Annie, Paul, and his family, it’s a time to dream – to feel the connection with their club, whether from the San Siro or from their home in Melbourne.