Inter Milan booked their place in the Coppa Italia semi-finals with a 2-0 win over Lazio at San Siro, setting up a mouthwatering two-legged clash with city rivals AC Milan. Goals from Marko Arnautovic and Hakan Calhanoglu sealed the victory, as Simone Inzaghi’s side kept their treble hopes alive.
Arnautovic’s Moment of Magic Gives Inter the Edge
Despite a congested schedule and key players missing from the starting lineup, Inter controlled much of the game. With Saturday’s massive Serie A clash against Napoli looming, Inzaghi opted to rest captain Lautaro Martinez and defensive anchor Alessandro Bastoni. Meanwhile, injuries to Yann Sommer, Marcus Thuram, and Joaquin Correa further limited his selection options.
Inter were forced into an early reshuffle when Matteo Darmian hobbled off after just 24 minutes, adding to their growing injury concerns. Lazio, looking to capitalize, tested Inter’s stand-in goalkeeper Josep Martinez early, with Gustav Isaksen forcing two sharp saves.
But it was the hosts who found the breakthrough just before the break. Federico Dimarco’s corner was only half-cleared by Lazio skipper Mattia Zaccagni, and Arnautovic pounced with a stunning first-time volley from 25 yards, leaving Christos Mandas with no chance. The Austrian’s technique and precision underlined his experience, making up for some underwhelming performances in recent weeks.
Lazio Waste Chances Before Inter Kill the Game Off
Lazio came out of the dressing room with renewed urgency, knowing they needed a response. Isaksen continued to be their most dangerous outlet, forcing another smart save from Martinez early in the second half. Moments later, Zaccagni found space inside the box, but his tame effort went straight at the Inter keeper—an opportunity that would come back to haunt Marco Baroni’s side.
Inter, always dangerous in transition, eventually put the game to bed in the 87th minute. Correa, making his return from injury, was brought down inside the box by Lazio defender Samuel Gigot, and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Hakan Calhanoglu stepped up and coolly sent Mandas the wrong way, putting the result beyond doubt.
What’s Next? The Derby della Madonnina Awaits
With the win, Inter set up a high-stakes clash with AC Milan in the semi-finals, reviving one of football’s most intense rivalries. The two-legged showdown is set for April, with both sides eyeing domestic silverware.
Before that, Inter turn their focus to Saturday’s Serie A showdown with Napoli, a key battle in their pursuit of the Scudetto. Inzaghi will be hoping to have some of his injured stars back for the top-of-the-table clash, as the Nerazzurri look to extend their lead at the summit.
For Lazio, the loss ends their Coppa Italia campaign, leaving their focus solely on climbing the Serie A table and securing European football for next season. While they showed glimpses of promise, missed opportunities proved costly against an Inter side that continues to find ways to win.
Key Takeaways from Inter’s Win
- Marko Arnautovic delivers – A world-class volley justified Inzaghi’s faith in the veteran forward.
- Josep Martinez steps up – With Sommer sidelined, the backup goalkeeper produced a solid display.
- Lazio’s lack of finishing – Isaksen and Zaccagni had chances, but their wastefulness proved costly.
- Calhanoglu’s composure – The Turkish midfielder iced the game with his penalty, continuing his strong season.
- Derby drama incoming – The Milan rivalry will take center stage in the Coppa Italia semis.
Inter’s march toward another domestic final remains on course, and if they continue this form, they could be celebrating more than just local bragging rights come May.
