The Nerazzurri extended their lead atop the Serie A standings on Saturday evening as Inter defeated Atalanta 2-1 at Gewiss Stadium. Goals from Hakan Calhanoglu and Lautaro Martinez established a two-goal lead and a second-half goal from Gianluca Scamacca wasn’t enough for the hosts to get back into the match. Check out our Atalanta vs Inter preview below.
Calhanoglu opens from the spot
The opening phases of the match resulted in very few chances for either side. Matteo Ruggeri had a shot that flashed wide after Inter had failed to deal with a cross from the right by Davide Zappacosta. However, opportunities were few and far between after the first quarter of the game. Zappacosta appeared to be the only real threat for the hosts after the first half hour.
The away side started to gain more of the ball towards the end of the half and that resulted in a penalty awarded for the Nerazzurri, following a rash challenge by goalkeeper Juan Musso. The Argentine quickly rushed off his line as he encountered Matteo Darmian who was running through on goal. Hakan Calhanoglu converted from the spot with ease, tucking the ball into the bottom left corner.
Martinez adds a second, Scamacca pulls one back
Inter looked in control to begin the second half and that eventually led to them doubling their advantage. Lautaro Martinez displayed his world-class ability by cutting in from the left flank and wrapping his foot around the ball to establish a two-goal lead. The World Cup winner, once again, demonstrated just how crucial he is for Inter.
However, the two-goal cushion didn’t last long as Atalanta pulled a goal back just minutes after. Gianluca Scamacca was able to hit the back of the net for the home side, making it 2-1. That would mean it was a nervy end for the visitors.
It wasn’t Inter’s most convincing win but it was always going to be difficult playing in Bergamo. However, the visitors were able to establish the victory by limiting La Dea’s chances, coupled with clinical finishing.
Inter hold on for the victory
Atalanta controlled possession for the final phases of play. However, Inter never really came under real pressure. That meant the away side were able to see the game out fairly comfortably. The triumph for Simone Inzaghi’s side means that they move five points clear at the top of Serie A. Both Juventus and Milan are still yet to play during Round 11 but, either way, it was a significant three points for Inter.
Inter return to Champions League action midweek as they visit RB Salzburg. They are currently level with Real Sociedad on points in Group D. Inzaghi’s men play host to Frosinone in their next Serie A outing as they search for their fourth consecutive victory across all competitions. Meanwhile, Atalanta play host to Sturm Graz in Europa League action before facing Udinese away from home in their next Serie A match.