In a highly anticipated clash of the Serie A giants, Inter Milan emerged victorious against AS Roma with a 2-1 win at the Stadio Olimpico on October 20, 2024. The game was an action-packed rollercoaster, featuring goals, tactical masterstrokes, and standout performances, particularly from Lautaro Martinez. Despite Roma’s struggles this season, the match proved that they are still a force to be reckoned with, giving Inter Milan a run for their money.
Pre-match Hype and Lineups
Leading up to the match, Inter Milan’s head coach, Simone Inzaghi, cautioned his team against underestimating Roma despite their shaky form. With Roma sitting ninth in the Serie A table and having only won two of their last nine games across all competitions, many might have expected an easy ride for Inter. However, the Giallorossi were ready to fight for their season under coach Ivan Juric, and this match was crucial for both sides.
The lineups saw Inter starting with their best available squad, including the dynamic attacking duo of Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram. Nicolo Barella, back from injury, slotted into the midfield alongside the experienced Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Hakan Calhanoglu, while Yann Sommer maintained his perfect record between the posts.
For Roma, Evan Ndicka anchored their defense alongside Gianluca Mancini, while Paulo Dybala and Lorenzo Pellegrini were tasked with providing the creative spark up front. Despite missing key players like Stephan El Shaarawy and Alexis Saelemaekers, Roma was determined to hold their ground against the defending champions.
First Half: Inter Takes Control
The first half began with Inter Milan pressing hard, dictating the pace of the game. It wasn’t long before Lautaro Martinez, Inter’s star striker, opened the scoring. In the 20th minute, the Argentine found the back of the net with a stunning strike, leaving Roma’s goalkeeper, Mile Svilar, no chance. Martinez’s goal came after a series of slick passes from Inter’s midfield, showcasing their superior ball control and tactical cohesion.
Roma responded with a few good chances of their own, with Paulo Dybala looking sharp and creating opportunities. However, Inter’s defense, marshaled by Benjamin Pavard and Alessandro Bastoni, stood firm and denied Roma any clear scoring opportunities.
Just before halftime, Roma’s efforts paid off. Evan Ndicka, showing why he’s one of the most reliable defenders in Serie A, connected with a perfect cross to equalize for Roma. The goal lifted the home crowd, setting up an exciting second half.
Second Half: Lautaro Martinez Strikes Again
As the second half began, both teams came out determined to grab the lead. Roma pushed forward, with Dybala and Pellegrini working tirelessly to break down Inter’s defense. However, it was Inter Milan who once again found the breakthrough.
Lautaro Martinez, who had been a constant threat throughout the match, struck again in the 70th minute. The goal came from a beautiful assist by Nicolo Barella, who had just returned to action after a thigh injury. Martinez’s second goal was a true display of his poise and finishing ability, as he calmly slotted the ball past the Roma goalkeeper, securing Inter’s lead.
Despite Roma’s attempts to level the game, Inter’s defense, led by Francesco Acerbi and Yann Sommer, held strong. Simone Inzaghi made a few key substitutions, bringing on fresh legs like Davide Frattesi and Denzel Dumfries to ensure that Inter could see out the game without any major scares.
Tactical Battle: Inzaghi’s Strategy Prevails
Simone Inzaghi’s decision to field his strongest available lineup, despite a few injury concerns, paid off. Inter’s midfield trio of Barella, Mkhitaryan, and Calhanoglu controlled the tempo of the game, with Calhanoglu in particular dictating play from deep. Inzaghi’s decision to bring in Federico Dimarco and Matteo Darmian on the flanks also added an extra dimension to Inter’s attack.
Roma, on the other hand, looked dangerous at times, but their inability to convert chances into goals hurt them. Evan Ndicka and Paulo Dybala were standout performers for the Giallorossi, but the team struggled to cope with Inter’s high press and quick transitions.
FAQs
Lautaro Martinez scored both goals for Inter Milan in their 2-1 victory over Roma.
Evan Ndicka scored the equalizer for Roma just before halftime, but Inter regained the lead in the second half.
Inter Milan won the match 2-1 against Roma.
Lautaro Martinez was the standout player, scoring both goals for Inter Milan.
Inter’s starting lineup included Yann Sommer, Benjamin Pavard, Nicolo Barella, and Lautaro Martinez. Roma’s starting XI featured Paulo Dybala, Evan Ndicka, and Lorenzo Pellegrini.
Conclusion: Inter Milan March On
With this 2-1 victory, Inter Milan continues to assert their dominance in Serie A, staying near the top of the table and maintaining their strong form. Lautaro Martinez, with his brace, was undoubtedly the man of the match, and his clinical finishing continues to be a key asset for the Nerazzurri this season.
For Roma, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow, but they showed glimpses of the quality that could turn their season around. Coach Ivan Juric will need to address some defensive frailties and find a way to get more from his forwards if they are to climb back into the upper half of the table.
With the season still young, both teams have plenty to fight for. Inter Milan will look to continue their title charge, while Roma must regroup and find consistency if they hope to make a push for European qualification.
