Inter Milan’s ambitions of retaining the Serie A title suffered a significant setback at San Siro, as they fell 1-0 to AS Roma in a match that underscored both their current struggles and Roma’s impressive resilience. With the league campaign approaching its climax and Inter neck-and-neck with Napoli at the top, this defeat-Inter’s third in a week-could prove pivotal in the title race.
Inter started the match with urgency, believing they had taken an early lead through Davide Frattesi, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside. The Nerazzurri’s fortunes worsened when defender Benjamin Pavard was forced off with an ankle injury just 15 minutes in, a concern ahead of their looming Champions League semi-final against Barcelona.
Roma, meanwhile, grew into the contest and struck in the 22nd minute. After a scramble in the box, the ball fell kindly for Matías Soulé, who fired home from close range to silence the San Siro. The Giallorossi continued to threaten, with Bryan Cristante and Eldor Shomurodov both coming close to doubling the lead before halftime.
Inter’s response was muted.
Despite dominating possession and pushing forward in the second half, they rarely troubled Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar, managing just one shot on target by the 85th minute. Substitute changes by Simone Inzaghi failed to spark a revival, and Roma nearly extended their lead through Niccolò Pisilli and Artem Dovbyk, only for wasteful finishing and last-ditch defending to keep the scoreline close.
Inzaghi acknowledged the pain of a third consecutive defeat, stating, “Three defeats in one week hurts, and we're not used to such a run. It was a very important game, but we lacked a clear head. We need to try and get our energy back”. He refused to blame refereeing decisions, emphasizing, “It would be too easy to discuss that. We must concentrate on understanding why the game unfolded as it did beyond those factors”. Inzaghi also highlighted the need for collective improvement and mental recovery ahead of their next fixtures.
Ranieri praised his team’s determination: “We dedicate this victory to our supporters, as we felt their absence. Our aim was to make them proud and to secure a win”. He noted Roma’s tactical discipline and resolve, especially in the opening half-hour, and regretted not scoring more: “It's unfortunate we didn't score more goals. We've had several 1-0 wins while squandering numerous chances, but ultimately, it's the three points that matter”. Ranieri also pointed to the significance of finally beating a top club this season and maintaining their unbeaten run.
This result leaves Inter’s title defense hanging by a thread, with Napoli poised to capitalize. Roma, meanwhile, continue their remarkable unbeaten run and keep their top-four hopes alive.
Both teams now turn their attention to crucial upcoming fixtures, with Inter facing Barcelona 3 day in Champions League, and Roma preparing to meet Fiorentina.