Riyadh, Jan 3: Defending Serie A champions Inter Milan continued their dominance over current league leaders Atalanta, securing a 2-0 victory in the semifinals of the Italian Super Cup in Saudi Arabia.
The Nerazzurri, who have now notched seven consecutive wins against Atalanta, advanced to Monday’s final of the four-team tournament. Juventus and AC Milan will face off in the other semifinal on Friday, marking the debut of Milan’s new coach, Sergio Conceicao, after Paulo Fonseca’s dismissal.
Inter, aiming to clinch the Super Cup for the fourth straight year, showcased a commanding performance. Denzel Dumfries emerged as the star of the night, scoring both goals in the second half.
His first was a stunning overhead kick from close range, demonstrating his agility and precision.
The second goal came from a blistering long-range strike that capped off a swift counterattack.
Despite Inter’s dominance, Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi made several crucial saves in the first half, keeping his team in contention.
However, Atalanta’s lineup decisions raised eyebrows, as key players Ademola Lookman, Charles De Ketelaere, and Ederson started on the bench.
The trio was introduced near the hour mark, and Ederson found the net shortly after, only to have his goal disallowed for offside following a VAR review.
Inter’s recent history against Atalanta has been one-sided, with two emphatic 4-0 victories in Serie A last year.
However, this season, Atalanta and Napoli currently sit one point ahead of Inter in the league standings, though Inter has a game in hand.
The win was not without concerns for Inter. Marcus Thuram, who has been a key figure in their attack, was substituted at halftime after appearing to suffer a left thigh injury.
His fitness will be a key concern as Inter prepares for the final.
The Italian Super Cup final promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Inter looking to assert their supremacy once again and bring the trophy back to Milan.
The Nerazzurri will be eager to maintain their streak in the tournament and continue their pursuit of silverware this season.
Inter Milan’s victory over Atalanta not only secured their place in the Italian Super Cup final but also reaffirmed their dominance over one of Serie A’s strongest teams.
With Denzel Dumfries delivering a standout performance and the team exhibiting tactical discipline, the Nerazzurri look poised to extend their winning streak in the competition and claim their fourth consecutive Super Cup title.
However, the potential absence of Marcus Thuram in the final due to injury raises questions about the team’s attacking options moving forward.
As Inter prepares to face either Juventus or AC Milan in the final, they will need to maintain their momentum and resolve any lingering fitness concerns to keep their silverware ambitions alive.
The final, set for Monday, promises a high-stakes showdown, and Inter will undoubtedly aim to continue their reign in the tournament while solidifying their reputation as one of Italy’s most formidable football powerhouses. (AP)
