Under the iconic floodlights of Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Inter hosted Como in an eagerly anticipated Match Day seventeen clash of the Serie A 2024-25 season. The atmosphere was electric, with fans from both sides filling the stadium with chants and energy that underscored the importance of the game. Inter, with their sights firmly set on closing the gap at the top of the table, faced a Como side determined to extend their recent run of positive results and avoid being dragged into the relegation battle. Ultimately, Inter claimed a two-nil victory, thanks to second-half goals from Carlos Augusto and Marcus Thuram. The match highlighted the importance of tactical discipline, moments of individual brilliance, and the fine margins that define top-tier football.
First Half: Grit and Defense Take Center Stage
The match kicked off to a deafening roar from the passionate Inter faithful, who had packed the stands in support of their team. Como, under the guidance of manager Cesc Fabregas, began the game with an aggressive and structured approach, pressing Inter’s backline with high intensity and forcing early errors. The tactical organization of Como was evident from the outset, with Nico Paz and Gabriel Strefezza driving their offensive efforts, while Andrea Belotti’s physical presence created challenges for Inter’s defense.
Inter, led by Simone Inzaghi, faced early challenges in breaking down Como’s compact and disciplined defense. The home side’s first real opportunity came in the twelfth minute when Henrikh Mkhitaryan unleashed a curling effort from the edge of the area, narrowly missing the far post. Despite controlling possession, Inter struggled to convert their dominance into clear chances as Como’s counterattacks continued to threaten. In the seventeenth minute, Fadera’s precise cross found Van Der Brempt, whose header, though well-timed, lacked the power and direction to trouble goalkeeper Yann Sommer.
As the half progressed, Inter began to find their rhythm, with Nicolò Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu attempting to dictate the tempo in midfield. However, Como’s disciplined midfield trio, led by Sergi Roberto, effectively disrupted Inter’s buildup play. In the thirty-third minute, Denzel Dumfries squandered the best chance of the half for Inter, sending a close-range effort over the crossbar after a pinpoint low cross from Mkhitaryan. The frustration was palpable as Inter’s fans urged their team forward.
Late in the half, Federico Dimarco managed a shot on target, but it was easily saved by Como’s veteran goalkeeper, Pepe Reina. The halftime whistle blew with the scoreline still level at nil-nil. Como’s resolute defending and tactical discipline had successfully stifled Inter’s attacking prowess, setting the stage for a tense second half.
Second Half: Inter Break the Deadlock
The halftime break seemed to energize Inter, as they emerged from the tunnel with a renewed sense of urgency. Inzaghi’s tactical adjustments were immediately evident, with Inter adopting a higher tempo and utilizing their width more effectively. The breakthrough came in the forty-eighth minute when Hakan Calhanoglu delivered a superb outswinging corner. Carlos Augusto, timing his run perfectly, rose above the defense and powered a header into the back of the net. The Giuseppe Meazza erupted in celebration as the ex-Monza defender’s goal ended Como’s stubborn resistance.
The goal shifted the dynamics of the match. Como, now trailing, were forced to abandon their deep defensive setup and push higher up the pitch in search of an equalizer. This created spaces for Inter to exploit, and the home side nearly doubled their lead in the fifty-ninth minute. Denzel Dumfries delivered a dangerous cross that narrowly missed Lautaro Martinez’s outstretched boot, with Reina making a crucial intervention to keep his side in contention. Moments later, Carlos Augusto showcased his defensive prowess with a vital clearance to deny Belotti a golden opportunity at the other end.
Key Substitutions and Tactical Changes
Both managers turned to their benches as the game entered its final third. Fabregas introduced Patrick Cutrone and Luca Mazzitelli to inject energy and creativity into Como’s attack, while Inzaghi brought on Piotr Zielinski and Davide Frattesi to strengthen Inter’s midfield and maintain control of the game. Tensions began to rise, with Lucas Da Cunha and Cesc Fabregas both receiving yellow cards for dissent and fouls.
The seventy-fourth minute brought a moment of drama as Lautaro Martinez found the back of the net with a deflected shot. However, after a lengthy VAR review, the goal was ruled out for offside, much to the disappointment of the Inter faithful. Despite the setback, the Nerazzurri remained composed and continued to apply pressure, probing Como’s defense for a decisive second goal.
Late Drama and Thuram’s Decisive Strike
As the match entered injury time, Inter delivered the final blow to secure the victory. In the ninety-second minute, substitute Piotr Zielinski played a perfectly weighted through ball to Marcus Thuram. The French forward demonstrated his composure and clinical finishing, slotting the ball past Reina with precision. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations among the Inter players and fans, as the result was now beyond doubt.
Thuram’s late strike highlighted his growing influence in Inter’s attack and underscored the importance of depth in Simone Inzaghi’s squad. The final whistle soon followed, confirming Inter’s hard-fought two-nil victory and sending the home crowd into rapturous applause.
Standout Performances and Tactical Mastery
Carlos Augusto’s all-around performance was a key factor in Inter’s success. Combining defensive solidity with his crucial opening goal, the versatile defender earned the Man of the Match accolade. Marcus Thuram’s late goal and dynamic presence in the final third further emphasized his importance to Inter’s attacking setup. For Como, Pepe Reina’s shot-stopping ability and Fadera’s tireless work rate stood out, showcasing the team’s resilience despite the loss.
Simone Inzaghi’s tactical adjustments proved decisive. Recognizing Como’s defensive organization in the first half, he emphasized the use of width and set pieces, which ultimately broke the deadlock. Conversely, Cesc Fabregas’s defensive game plan was effective early on but lacked the offensive threat needed to trouble Inter consistently in the second half.
Final Whistle and Implications
Inter’s two-nil victory propels them closer to the summit of Serie A, keeping the pressure on title rivals Napoli and Atalanta. With this win, they extend their league unbeaten streak and reinforce their credentials as serious title contenders. The result also underscores the depth and quality of Inzaghi’s squad, as they continue to navigate a demanding schedule.
For Como, the defeat leaves them perilously close to the relegation zone, highlighting the urgency of securing points in their upcoming fixtures. Despite the loss, their disciplined performance in the first half provides a platform to build upon as they aim to climb the standings.
The match encapsulated the essence of Serie A football—a captivating blend of tactical acumen, individual brilliance, and passionate support. As the season progresses, both teams will look to draw lessons from this encounter in pursuit of their respective goals.
