Fredy Guarin the difference as Inter takes derby spoils over Milan

A lone goal from Fredy Guarin separated Inter and AC Milan in the first derby of the season on Sunday, with the Nerazzurri securing sole possession of first place in Serie A for the first time in five years.

Inter also keeps its record perfect through three games.

It was an even game full of chances for both sides as they fielded new signings after a summer of big spending. Milan and Inter attempted 35 shots in total and shared virtually an equal percentage of the ball.

Guarin put Inter ahead in the 57th minute with the only unstoppable shot of the game. The Colombian midfielder broke free of the Milan defenders and launched a laser from the tip of the half-circle that curled past Diego Lopez.

Both goalkeepers at that point had made key points to keep the score level. A bad giveaway from defender Gary Medel just three minutes into the game allowed Milan's Carlos Bacca to set up Luiz Adriano in the box, but Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic made the point-blank stop.

Lopez put his body on the line to make a similar save on Mauro Icardi at the end of the first half.

The second half forced Milan to take the initiative - especially after the strike from Guarin. And the introduction of a certain Mario Balotelli livened up the attack.

Making his second debut with Milan following a season-long loan from Liverpool, Balotelli stepped on and immediately assumed free-kick duties.

But the 25-year-old Italian seemed intent to show the world just how much talent he still has. He used every bit of his 28 minutes as a substitute, moving into space and drawing several fouls. He even hit the post from a stunning long-range attempt that clearly beat Handanovic.

The shots and crosses would still come - right up until the final minute of stoppage time - but Balotelli would not have his moment of glory.

It was still an extremely positive match for the embattled striker - and even for Milan. While Inter kept its shape and held firm at the back, Milan in its own right did not drop in intensity or determination.

The derby, which has only produced eight goals in the past seven editions, was definitely an improvement on recent years.

The two Milanese clubs combined to spend close to €150 million this summer, bringing in talent like Adriano, Bacca, Ivan Perisic, and Geoffrey Kondogbia. And it showed on the pitch.

Milan, however, has started with just three points in three Serie A matches.