© AFP
Inter has breathed new life into the Italian league. Thanks to a narrow but deserved victory against authoritarian leader Napoli, tension is returning to the battle for the ‘scudetta’.
Guy Van Den Langenbergh
After the disappointing World Cup – in which he only played twice after injury – a fit Romelu Lukaku was immediately in the base with the Milanese, supported deep in the striker by the experienced Bosnian Eden Dzeko. The Neapolitans have not yet lost this season and wanted to continue that series.
Still, it was Inter that started the game best. Lukaku was eager and immediately offered Di Marco a chance. Darmian also had an excellent opportunity, but the fullback fired over the ball recklessly. Lukaku? He looked more than fit and was well involved in the game. However, opportunities did not come for the Red Devil.
Lukaku with match winner Dzeko. — © REUTERS
After the break, Inter pulled the sheet even more. And that quickly led to success. Di Marco sent the perfect cross, Dzeko had to head it in. Lukaku’s work was done on the hour. Coach Simone Inzaghi replaced our compatriot for world champion Lautaro Martinez.
Napoli went looking for the equalizer, but the Inter defense remained disciplined. Although the pressure was increased, the leader did not get any really great chances for the equalizer. Only Raspadori came close to the equalizer in the final phase, but goalkeeper Onana stood firm.
It was Naples’ first loss of the season. In the standings, Milan, which won 0-1 in the afternoon, is within five points of the leader. Inter are fourth, eight points behind Napoli.
