Inter Milan secured their place in the final of the Supercoppa Italiana after defeating Atalanta 2-0 at the Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on January 2, 2025. Denzel Dumfries was the star of the match, scoring both goals for the champions as they demonstrated their resilience and skill.
The first half of the game saw opportunities for both teams, but it was Dumfries who broke the deadlock shortly after the second half began. With the match only 49 minutes old, Dumfries found the net with a spectacular overhead kick from inside the box, turning the tide firmly in Inter's favor. The assist came from Bisseck, who flicked the ball on from a corner kick.
Just 12 minutes later, Dumfries struck again, displaying impressive composure and finishing power. After picking up the ball during a rapid counterattack, he unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the box, sending the ball crashing against the underside of the crossbar and bouncing over the line, giving Inter a comfortable 2-0 lead.
Atalanta's response came when Ederson found the net, but the goal was disallowed after VAR ruled De Ketelaere was offside during the build-up. Atalanta Coach Gian Piero Gasperini voiced his frustration over the officiation, stating, "É una brutta espressione del Var, che ci ha messo sette minuti a trovare giustamente il fuorigioco di De Ketelaere. Abbiamo esportato un brutto Var, che non ha visto queste tre situazioni chiare," reflecting on his team's disappointment with the close decisions.
Despite Atalanta's efforts, including several chances denied by Inter goalkeeper Sommer, the team struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match. Their inability to capitalize on potential opportunities thwarted their progress against a well-organized Inter defense led by Bastoni and De Vrij.
Simone Inzaghi, Inter's manager, praised his team’s composure and tactical discipline after the match, emphasizing their dominance: "Siamo stati bravissimi e non c'è stata partita contro un avversario di assoluto valore. L'Inter ha approcciato i due tempi da grande squadra per andare a prenderci questa finale con una partita di grande concentrazione e tecnica." His words reaffirmed the team's commitment to competing at the highest level.
Dumfries expressed joy over his performance and the team's victory, stating, "Sono contento per la vittoria e per la mia prestazione, ma soprattutto per aver contribuito al successo del gruppo. Siamo sulla buona strada, dobbiamo continuare così e pensiamo partita per partita." His confidence showcases the high spirits within the Inter squad.
Looking forward, Inter awaits the result from the other semifinal between Milan and Juventus, which is set to determine their opponent for the final scheduled for January 6, 2025. The anticipation builds as the team, having already showcased their tactical prowess, dedicates themselves to maintaining momentum throughout this season.
Inter's victory marks their fourth advance to the Supercoppa final, continuing their impressive run under the management of Simone.Inzaghi, who has now reached the final of this competition all five times he has participated. His ability to motivate and guide the team remains invaluable as they strive to secure their sixth trophy.
On the flip side, Gasperini's comments hint at the need for introspection and improvement for Atalanta. The match served as a learning opportunity, where they showed moments of promise, but couldn’t convert pressure and possession advantageously.
This semifinal represented not only tactical confrontation but also emotional intensity, as both coaches emphasized the importance of perseverance amid fierce competition. With the Supercoppa trophy on the line, all eyes will undoubtedly be on the final showdown.
Inter’s momentum is palpable as they step closer to reclaiming silverware and fortifying their reputation as one of Italy’s top clubs. Fans are poised, their hopes riding on the team's ability to deliver yet again.