Inter Milan began their Serie A title defence in emphatic fashion, defeating newly promoted Monza 4-1 at San Siro on Saturday.
Hakan Calhanoglu gave the champions an early lead in the sixth minute after meeting Andy Diouf’s pass before firing a powerful right-footed effort into the roof of the net.
Monza, however, responded against the run of play in the 29th minute when Gustavo Varela drilled a low angled finish into the bottom corner to level the contest.
Inter regained control after the break and restored their advantage just three minutes into the second half.
Piotr Zielinski reacted quickest to a loose ball following a corner and fired home to make it 2-1.
The hosts extended their lead in the 55th minute when Pio Esposito finished from close range after another assist from Diouf.
Eight minutes later, Esposito turned provider as he set up Yann Bisseck, who found the top corner from inside the box to complete Inter’s scoring.
Inter continued to dominate, with Manuel Akanji hitting the crossbar before being replaced by England defender John Stones in the 75th minute for his Serie A debut.
Monza threatened late on, but Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez made a smart low save to deny Samuele Birindelli, while Nicolas Galazzi also missed the target.
Esposito came close to adding a fifth in stoppage time but headed wide as Inter comfortably secured all three points.
The result gives Cristian Chivu’s side an ideal start to their campaign as they begin their bid to retain the Serie A crown.
