In a thrilling climax, Lautaro Martinez helped Inter to win the third consecutive Supercoppa Italiana title, clinching victory against 10-man Napoli. Giovanni Simeone’s expulsion on the hour mark added to the drama in this historic match. The Serie A and Coppa Italia title holders saw off Fiorentina and Lazio in the semi-finals to set the stage.
Despite fitness concerns with Alessandro Bastoni and Juan Cuadrado nursing injuries, the match unfolded with intense moments. Federico Dimarco’s fierce volley veered inches wide, and goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini thwarted a long-range strike from Hakan Calhanoglu. Lautaro Martinez’s header found the net at the 38th minute, but the goal was disallowed due to Marcus Thuram’s offside position during the assist. Stefan de Vrij exhibited defensive prowess against Kvicha Kvaratskhelia. Thuram’s attempt from a Nicoló Barella cross went over just before half-time.
Inter win the Supercoppa title as they beat the 10-men Napoli
The news of Italy legend Gigi Riva’s passing reached the stadium. So a minute’s silence honored his legacy. Matteo Politano’s free-kick sailed over the bar, and Kvaratskhelia tested Yann Sommer with a curling effort, resulting in the first real save of the game. Barella, like Calhanoglu, received a booking and faces suspension for Inter’s upcoming Serie A clash with Fiorentina.
Amir Rrahmani’s decisive interception denied Darmian’s pass, preventing a clear chance for Lautaro Martinez. The game’s turning point occurred when Simeone received a second yellow card, reducing Napoli to 10 men. Thuram missed a golden opportunity before Alexis Sanchez’s setup allowed Lautaro Martinez to fire in from six yards.
The goal secured victory for Inter, and manager Simone Inzaghi achieved a remarkable feat. He is now past Italian football legends Fabio Capello and Marcello Lippi in Supercoppa wins. The jubilant scene saw Inzaghi walking off the field, signaling a new chapter in Inter’s illustrious history.
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