Inter manager Simone Inzaghi lauded his team's resilience and character following their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Roma in a key Serie A clash. The victory was especially impressive considering the early setbacks Inter faced, with injuries to two crucial players—Hakan Calhanoglu and Francesco Acerbi—disrupting their game plan. Despite these challenges, Inter held firm and secured the win thanks to a second-half goal from star striker Lautaro Martinez.
Inzaghi highlighted the difficulties of losing Calhanoglu, who had been dealing with fitness concerns in the days leading up to the match. "Hakan had some discomfort in his adductor, and although he wanted to contribute, it was clear he couldn't continue without risking a more severe injury," Inzaghi explained to DAZN. The Turkish midfielder had to be substituted early on, alongside defender Acerbi, complicating Inzaghi’s tactical setup. "It's always tough to lose two key players so early, especially in a match as crucial as this, but the team responded admirably," Inzaghi added.
Despite the disruptions, Inter remained composed and found a way to overcome a determined Roma side, coached by Jose Mourinho. Lautaro Martinez’s clinical finish in the second half sealed the victory, which not only gave Inter three valuable points but also propelled them to second place in the Serie A standings. Martinez's goal was his third of the season, bringing him level with the club's all-time scoring record for a non-Italian player, with 133 goals across all competitions—a feat that earned him special praise from his coach.
"Lautaro is an exceptional player, and what he has achieved with both Inter and Argentina is remarkable," said Inzaghi. "In my opinion, he's one of the top five players in the world right now, and he deserves all of this success."
The win put Inter just one point behind league leaders Napoli, keeping them firmly in the title race, while they are also one point ahead of an unbeaten Juventus, whom they will face in their next Serie A fixture. Inzaghi acknowledged the importance of the result, noting that while the first half was closely contested, Inter grew stronger as the game progressed. "Roma played well in the first half, but we created more opportunities in the second half and could have scored more. It was a tough match, but I’m proud of the way the team responded to the challenges."
Looking ahead, Inzaghi emphasized the importance of maintaining focus as Inter continue their pursuit of the Serie A title. "We need to stay grounded and keep building on this momentum. The league is long, and there are many battles ahead, but with performances like this, I believe we can achieve great things."
Injuries may have tested Inter’s resolve, but their performance against Roma demonstrated their depth, resilience, and determination—qualities they will need to sustain if they are to challenge for the Scudetto in the weeks to come.
