Milan, Nov 01 (V7N)- AC Milan defeated city rivals Inter Milan 3-1 in the Milan derby on Saturday, securing their fourth consecutive victory over their neighbours and reshaping the Serie A title race.

Belgian midfielder Diego Moreira was the standout performer, scoring once and providing two assists as AC Milan claimed all three points. The defeat also cost Inter their position at the top of the league table.

AC Milan made an aggressive start and took the lead in the fourth minute. Christian Pulisic headed home a cross from Moreira, marking his fourth goal in the Milan derby.

The hosts doubled their advantage six minutes later. Moreira set up Adrien Rabiot, who produced an impressive chipped finish from a short-corner move. The ball struck the inside of the far post before crossing the goal line.

AC Milan legend Kaka, watching from the stands, appeared amused by Rabiot's spectacular finish and jokingly gestured as if asking how he had managed it.

Inter responded by increasing the pressure and pulled one goal back in the 22nd minute. Alessandro Bastoni headed in after Manuel Akanji extended the ball from a corner.

Inter continued pushing for an equaliser, but goalkeeper Mike Maignan produced several important saves. He denied a close-range opportunity from Djed Spence in the 33rd minute and also kept out attempts from Hakan Calhanoglu, Andy Diouf and Petar Susic.

AC Milan restored their two-goal cushion shortly before half-time. Moreira scored directly from a free-kick in the 43rd minute, completing an outstanding individual performance and giving the hosts a 3-1 lead at the break.

Inter sought to mount a comeback in the second half but failed to find another goal. The visitors were awarded a late penalty, but the decision was overturned following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review.

Inter enjoyed 56 per cent possession and registered 15 shots, but Maignan's seven crucial saves helped AC Milan maintain their advantage.

The victory lifted AC Milan to fourth place in the Serie A standings. Inter, meanwhile, dropped to second, losing the top position on goal difference, while Lazio moved above them.

EMD/SMA/AJ