Inter Milan battled to a hard-earned 2-1 victory over a spirited Sassuolo at the San Siro, averting a third consecutive Serie A defeat for the first time since April 2023.
Cristian Chivu entered the match under pressure, with his side having lost their last two league games.
Memories of Sassuolo’s remarkable league double over Inter two seasons ago added a sense of caution heading into the clash.
The Nerazzurri quickly set the tone, taking the lead in the 14th minute. Nicolo Barella drove forward and picked out Petar Sucic, who cleverly teed up Federico Dimarco to slot a precise side-footed finish past Arijanet Muric, capping a beautifully orchestrated move.
Inter looked comfortable in the opening stages, with Hakan Calhanoglu narrowly missing a long-range effort, while Marcus Thuram came close for the visitors, just failing to connect with Denzel Dumfries’ through ball.
Sassuolo, however, remained a threat on the counter, with Armand Lauriente and Domenico Berardi testing Inter’s defence repeatedly.
A key moment came when Josh Doig blocked Dumfries’ shot from close range, while Lauriente and Pio Esposito forced saves from Josep Martinez, keeping the game tense.
Martinez also made a stunning one-handed stop to deny Andrea Pinamonti’s header, underlining Sassuolo’s resilience.
Inter appeared to put the game beyond doubt in the 81st minute when Carlos Augusto’s shot took a massive deflection and beat Muric.
But Sassuolo fought back, with Walid Cheddira converting from close range to halve the deficit. A late goal from Davide Frattesi was ruled out for offside, preserving Inter’s slender lead.
Ultimately, Inter held on for all three points, though questions remain over their unconvincing start to the season. Sassuolo, despite suffering their 12th defeat in 15 away league games, can take heart from their battling performance.
