Inter Milan edged out Venezia 1-0 on Sunday to secure a vital Serie A victory, keeping them in close pursuit of league leaders Napoli. Matteo Darmian’s first-half goal proved decisive as Simone Inzaghi’s side claimed their sixth consecutive away league win, setting a club record for clean sheets in the process.
How the Game Unfolded
Inter started brightly and took the lead in the 16th minute. Lautaro Martinez showcased his skill with an excellent touch and volley, forcing a save from Filip Stankovic. Matteo Darmian was quick to react, pouncing on the rebound to slot home the only goal of the match.
Martinez continued to threaten Venezia’s defense, but Stankovic denied him again nine minutes before halftime. Mehdi Taremi also came close, curling a strike narrowly wide as Inter looked to extend their lead.
Venezia came alive in the second half, with Issa Doumbia nearly equalizing in the 48th minute. The unmarked Ivorian saw his shot expertly saved by Yann Sommer.
Inter had a golden chance to double their advantage in the 67th minute when substitute Davide Frattesi found himself one-on-one with Stankovic, but the Venezia goalkeeper stood firm.
The hosts almost salvaged a point in the dying moments when Gianluca Busio curled a shot against the post, but Inter held on for the narrow win.
Key Talking Points
Inter’s Resilience on the Road
This victory marked Inter’s sixth straight away win in Serie A, a testament to their strong form outside the San Siro. The clean sheet was also historic, as it was the first time in the club’s history they achieved such a streak while maintaining defensive solidity.
Matteo Darmian: Unlikely Hero
Darmian’s goal was his first in an away Serie A match since January 2023. The versatile Italian defender stepped up in a crucial moment, underlining Inter’s ability to find contributions from across the squad.
Venezia’s Struggles Continue
Venezia showed fight, particularly in the second half, but their inability to finish chances proved costly. With goals conceded in 15 consecutive league games, they now hold the longest streak without a clean sheet in Serie A this season.
Inter’s Title Challenge
Following their Supercoppa Italiana disappointment against AC Milan, Inter responded with a professional performance. The win keeps them just one point behind Napoli, who faced Hellas Verona later on Sunday.
Player Ratings
Inter Milan
- Yann Sommer (GK): 7.5 – Made crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet.
- Matteo Darmian (RB): 8.0 – Scored the decisive goal and contributed defensively.
- Lautaro Martinez (ST): 7.8 – A constant threat but lacked the finishing touch.
- Davide Frattesi (SUB): 6.5 – Missed a clear chance to double the lead.
Venezia
- Filip Stankovic (GK): 8.0 – Kept Venezia in the game with several key saves.
- Gianluca Busio (CM): 7.2 – Nearly equalized with a shot that struck the post.
- Issa Doumbia (MF): 6.8 – Missed a great chance early in the second half.
What’s Next?
Inter will look to maintain their momentum as they continue their Serie A title pursuit. Venezia, meanwhile, must regroup quickly to address their defensive frailties and climb out of the relegation zone.
This hard-fought victory serves as a reminder of Inter’s resilience and determination to challenge for the Scudetto.
