Early Breakthrough and Defensive Fortitude
The match began at a frantic pace, and Inter quickly capitalised on the intensity. Just six minutes into the game, a moment of quality broke the deadlock. Midfield maestro Nicolo Barella threaded a perfectly weighted pass that sliced through the Roma defence, finding Ange-Yoan Bonny who expertly timed his run to stay onside. The 21-year-old, showing the composure that has quickly made him a fan favourite, finished with a powerful shot past the outstretched arms of Roma keeper Mile Svilar.
The early goal set the stage for a physical, tense encounter, riddled with fouls and midfield battles. Roma, driven by the desire to equalise in front of their home crowd, gradually increased the pressure. However, Inter's defence, marshalled brilliantly by the experienced Francesco Acerbi and supported by the impressive Yann Sommer in goal, held firm.
Sommer and the Post Deny Roma
The second half saw Roma step up their attacking intent, forcing Inter to rely on their defensive discipline and the brilliance of their goalkeeper. Swiss international Yann Sommer produced a series of crucial saves, most notably denying Paulo Dybala twice—once from a tight angle and then from a dangerous free-kick. Roma's best chance to level the score fell to substitute Artem Dovbyk, but the Ukrainian striker uncharacteristically headed over from close range, a collective sigh of relief echoing from the Inter bench.
Inter, meanwhile, remained a threat on the counter. Davide Frattesi and Henrikh Mkhitaryan injected fresh energy late on, and the veteran Armenian midfielder was agonizingly close to doubling the lead in the 84th minute, only to see his powerful first-time shot crash against the post.
Inter's New Star Ascendant
The victory marks a sensational return to form for Cristian Chivu’s side after the international break and extends their impressive winning streak at the Stadio Olimpico. The man of the hour, Ange-Yoan Bonny, continues his explosive start to the campaign. With three goals and three assists in his first seven league appearances, he is quickly establishing himself as Inter’s key offensive catalyst and a legitimate contender for this season’s breakthrough star.
This hard-fought win puts Inter Milan joint-top of the Serie A table on 15 points after 7 matches, separated from Napoli and Roma only by goal difference. For the Nerazzurri, the result is more than just three points; it’s a statement of intent, showcasing their resilience and title credentials in a genuine six-pointer. For Gian Piero Gasperini’s Roma, it is a tough lesson in a tight contest, highlighting the need for more cutting edge in the final third.
Match Facts:
- Result: Roma 0-1 Inter Milan
- Goalscorer: Ange-Yoan Bonny (6’)
- Venue: Stadio Olimpico, Rome
- Significance: Inter moves to the top of the Serie A table (pending other results).
- Man of the Match: Ange-Yoan Bonny (Inter)