On December 16, 2024, Inter Milan delivered a stunning performance against Lazio, defeating them 6-0 during Matchday 16 of the Serie A at Stadio Olimpico, Rome. This landslide victory not only showcased Inter's dominance but also highlighted their continued unbeaten streak, now reaching ten matches in the league.
Coming off the back of their Champions League encounter against Bayer Leverkusen earlier this week, Inter made five changes to their starting lineup. Coach Simone inzaghi opted to rotate players, bringing back key figures like Lautaro Martínez, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, and Nicolò Barella, aiming to reinforce the team's attacking presence. The adjustments paid off significantly as Inter quickly established control over the match.
After some back-and-forth play, Inter created their first major opportunity during the 36th minute. A corner taken by Hakan Çalhanoğlu resulted in Denzel Dumfries heading the ball, initially saved by Lazio's goalkeeper Ivan Provedel. The rebound, though manipulated by Lazio's defense, found Lautaro Martínez, who clashed with defender Sigurdsson, leading to De Vrij's disallowed goal due to a foul prior to scoring.
Just as it appeared the first half would conclude scoreless, VAR intervened to award Inter a penalty after confirming Dumfries' header had grazed Sigurdsson’s arm. Çalhanoğlu stepped up to convert the penalty, finding the back of the net at the 41-minute mark.
Inter extended their lead right before halftime when Dimarco finished a slick move initiated by Çalhanoğlu, amounting to another goal before the whistle blew to end the first half at 2-0.
Momentum carried through to the second half as Barella launched the first significant attack, scoring with a powerful shot from just outside the box, narrowing the distance even more at 51 minutes. Barella's goal ignited Inter's performance, bringing life to their attack.
A mere two minutes later, Dumfries added to the score after capitalizing on Bastoni’s perfectly executed cross. His header solidified Inter's position, bringing the tally to 4-0 and leaving Lazio struggling to respond.
Despite attempts to change tactics, Lazio couldn’t break through Inter’s formidable defense. Inter maintained their composure as the match progressed, showing their tactical superiority and depth on the field.
Inter’s aggression bore more fruit when Carlos Augusto scored at the 77th minute after initiating a rapid counterattack, making it 5-0. Not to be outdone, Marcus Thuram wrapped up the scoring just before the final whistle, finishing off the game at 6-0.
This victory not only reinforces Inter Milan's championship ambitions but also marks the 10th consecutive unbeaten league match, placing them solidly at the top of the Serie A standings with confidence swelling throughout their roster. Meanwhile, Lazio will face the tough reality of needing to regroup significantly after such a heavy defeat.
"We have been working hard and our strategy paid off today," said Hakan Çalhanoğlu after the match, reflecting optimism and belief within the squad, as reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport. Coach Simone inzaghi expressed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for resilience as Lazio moves forward
