AC Milan and Inter: The story behind football’s iconic image

A pause amid the smoke

In the image, Materazzi leans on Rui Costa as they look towards a haze of red smoke and flares. The moment contrasted with the trouble unfolding around them.

A Reuters photographer, Rellandini, recalled the contrast between the players. Materazzi had a reputation as a tough defender, while Rui Costa was known for a gentler, more artistic style.

Rivalry before the match

Tension had roots in earlier European meetings. Milan had eliminated Inter two years before, after both semi-final legs ended in draws at the San Siro, then won the final against Juventus on penalties at Old Trafford.

Flares end the quarter-final

Milan took a two-goal lead from the first leg through Stam and Shevchenko. Inter supporters nevertheless hoped their team could turn the tie around at the San Siro.

After a goal by Esteban Cambiasso was disallowed, flares and other objects came down from the Curva Nord. Dida was struck by a flare and suffered burns to his shoulder. Players gathered on the pitch as Inter captain Javier Zanetti and others spoke with referee Markus Merk and helped clear debris.

The match is abandoned

The teams were eventually ordered off the pitch while objects continued to fall. They left through a tunnel near the ultras’ section, trying to shelter as they went.

Rellandini said the match was stopped for almost half an hour, an unusual delay at the time. Paolo Maldini said the referee was right to stop the game, though he was surprised when Merk initially tried to restart it.