Lautaro Martinez scored a superb goal to give Inter Milan victory against Sparta Prague, ensuring their qualification for the knockout stages of the Champions League.
The Nerazzurri, who had conceded just one goal in their previous six European matches, knew that success would almost guarantee a place in the top 8. Although Hakan Calhanoglu, Francesco Acerbi and Yann Bisseck are not not available, Marcus Thuram returned to the starting lineup. The hosts, for their part, were without Angelo Preciado, while Lukas Haraslin, Albion Rrahmani and Indrit Tuci were also lacking in fitness.
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Denzel Dumfries was penalized for simulation in the first minutes, after a somewhat questionable fall while trying to pass a defender.
Inter opened the score thanks to a perfectly executed collective action: Lautaro Martinez skillfully transferred the ball from right to left, passing through Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Alessandro Bastoni, who then offered a cross for a sensational volley from the captain, even in a closed angle.
Benjamin Pavard almost cost himself dearly with a risky return of the ball, while Kristjan Asllani missed a great opportunity by shooting over from inside the area.
-Yann Sommer had to work to block shots from Birmancevic, including a hand on a powerful shot from 12 meters. After the restart, he again had to make a good save against the same attacker, who presented himself from a difficult angle.
Inter looked to double their lead when Federico Dimarco fed Denzel Dumfries, who dribbled past his defender to score from 12 yards. However, this goal was ruled out after a lengthy VAR check due to a slight offside.
Dimarco came close to scoring with a strike from the edge of the area, as did Davide Frattesi whose powerful shot was deflected over the bar.
Score final : Sparta Prague 0-1 Inter
Buts: Lautaro Martinez 12′ (I)
Inter’s success against Sparta Prague demonstrates their good momentum in the group stage of the Champions League. Tactical adjustments and the return of players like Marcus Thuram are crucial elements to watch for the next steps. What could be the impact on the team’s confidence as they move closer to the knockout stages?
