Inter Milan reinforced their title hopes with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Como at the San Siro Stadium on December 23, 2024. The match, pivotal for the Nerazzurri's aspirations this season, showcased their resilience against a struggling Como side.
The opening half saw Inter Milan dominate possession but struggle to convert their chances. Denzel Dumfries, who had been prolific earlier this season, missed a golden opportunity by firing just over the bar from close range. Meanwhile, Federico Dimarco's effort was comfortably saved by Como's experienced goalkeeper, Pepe Reina. The first half ended goalless, with both teams failing to find the breakthrough.
Three minutes after the restart, Inter finally broke the deadlock. Defender Carlos Augusto powered home a header from close range, beautifully connecting with Hakan Çalhanoglu’s corner kick. "I’m thrilled about the goal, but the most important thing is the victory," Augusto reflected post-match, as reported by Sky Italia. "We understood it was going to be a tough match, but we secured the three points. This year, the competition is fierce with numerous strong teams. Nevertheless, I have immense faith in my teammates, truly the best in the world."
Following the opening goal, Como momentarily gained momentum, with striker Edoardo Goldaniga coming close to scoring. Inter's goalkeeper, Yann Sommer, made several impressive saves to maintain the clean sheet, particularly denying Nico Paz's powerful attempt. Inter’s defense was resolute, with players like Augusto ensuring no easy scoring opportunities for Como.
Despite their lead, Inter pressed for more goals. Captain Lautaro Martínez had one goal disallowed for offside, extending his personal dry spell without finding the net for over a month. This moment illustrated the tension of the game, as every opportunity counted with both teams aware of the stakes.
Marcus Thuram eventually sealed the victory for Inter. Just two minutes deep in stoppage time, he scored with a fierce strike, marking his twelfth goal of the Serie A season. This goal also placed him level with Atalanta’s Mateo Retegui atop the scoring charts, adding personal and team significance to the match's outcome. "Winning is vitally important, even when we don’t perform at our very best,” noted center-back Alessandro Bastoni. "Especially since the top teams had already played and won, it was pivotal to respond positively today."
With this victory, Inter Milan maintains its competitive edge, sitting third on the Serie A table with 37 points, just three points behind leaders Atalanta, who managed to secure their own narrow victory against Empoli. Napoli, currently second with 38 points, also had a successful outing against Genoa, keeping the pressure on the defending champions.
Inter’s performance against Como not only demonstrates their attacking capabilities but also their defensive solidity, underscoring their preparations and strategies for the remainder of the season. The upcoming fixtures will test their depth and resolve as they aim to lift the Serie A trophy once again.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Inter Milan responds to the challenges of the forthcoming matches, as their ambition remains clear: to reclaim their position at the top of Italian football.
