The Internazionale de Milão has advanced to the semifinals of the Coppa Italia after defeating Lazio 2-0 at the iconic Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 25, 2025. The victory ensures Inter progresses to face their arch-rivals, AC Milan, for what promises to be an exciting semi-final clash.
The match began with intense pressure from Lazio, who aimed to assert their dominance early on. Gustav Isaksen was particularly threatening, creating chances and forcing saves from Inter goalkeeper Josep Martínez. Despite this pressure, it was Inter who struck first. At the 39-minute mark, Marko Arnautovic scored with a breathtaking volley from outside the area, capitalizing on a defensive lapse following a corner. This goal not only shifted the momentum of the game but also set the tone for Inter's performance thereafter.
Following halftime, Lazio pushed for the equalizer, but they were met with resolute defending from Inter. One pivotal moment came at the 58-minute mark when Isaksen had another glorious chance; his angled shot, seemingly destined for the bottom corner, was thwarted by another brilliant save from Martínez.
Inter was determined, and their efforts were solidified at the 77th minute when Hakan Çalhanoglu converted a penalty after Joaquín Correa was fouled inside the area by Samuel Gigot. This penalty sealed Lazio’s fate, driving the final nail with the 2-0 scoreline, as Inter demonstrated their ability to withstand pressure and capitalize on opportunities.
With this victory, the Nerazzurri remain firmly on track for what could be their tenth Coppa Italia title. They are also maintaining their hopes alive as the only Italian team still competing actively in the UEFA Champions League. Coach Simone Inzaghi's squad exuded confidence throughout the match, showcasing tactical prowess and resilience.
The upcoming semi-final against Milan is set to take place with the first leg scheduled for April 2. Both teams are expected to bring their best to this high-stakes match, igniting passions among the supporters and contributing to the storied rivalry of the Milan derby.
Post-match, Çalhanoglu expressed the team's collective ambition. "We aim for glory on both fronts—this victory is just the beginning of what we hope to achieve this season," he stated. This reinforced the team's determination, as fans eagerly anticipate the clash with their city rivals.
On the opposite side of the Coppa Italia bracket, Bologna awaits the winner of the match between Juventus and Empoli, which is scheduled to take place on February 26. With the stakes so high, every fixture becomes ever more pivotal as the tournament moves forward.
Inter’s next match sees them visiting Napoli this Saturday for another Serie A challenge, as they continue to juggle their commitments across tournaments. Lazio, meanwhile, will look to regroup and focus on their forthcoming game against Milan at the San Siro this Sunday, seeking redemption after their Coppa Italia exit.
This past quarter-final certainly showcased the caliber of Inter as they continue to demonstrate their favoritism within knockout competitions, proving once again their capability to perform under pressure and assert their position as one of Italy's premier football clubs.