There were no goals in the first half of the derby match between AC Milan and Inter Milan in Serie A this evening.

Chances were scarce in the opening half hour, with only Adel Taarabt having a shot for the home side, but his long-range effort was high and wide.

Inter tried to apply pressure down the other end with just over 10 minutes until the break, but Rodrigo Palacio was ruled offside as Mauro Icardi tried to play him through.

Samir Handanovic was tested from a Mario Balotelli free kick from just outside the box, but the visiting keeper was able to claim the ball.

The hosts' best chance of the half fell to Kaka shortly before the interval as he struck the ball on the half-volley from 20 yards out, but his effort came back off the crossbar as the sides remained level at the break.