Inter Milan survive Monza scare to extend Serie A lead

MILAN: Inter Milan were given an unexpected challenge by bottom club Monza but managed to come from behind to secure a 3-2 victory at the San Siro on Saturday. An own goal ultimately helped the Serie A leaders maintain their dominance at the top of the table.

The win moves Inter to 61 points, four ahead of Napoli, who face Fiorentina on Sunday. Meanwhile, Monza remain at the foot of the standings with just 14 points, 10 away from safety.

Monza started brightly, with Keita Balde narrowly missing the target before marking his 30th birthday with a goal. The visitors took a shock lead in the 32nd minute when Samuele Birindelli finished off a neat one-two with Dany Mota, silencing the home crowd.

Inter, who initially struggled to break down Monza’s defense, saw their early efforts denied by goalkeeper Stefano Turati and VAR. Turati pulled off excellent saves to stop Marko Arnautovic and Lautaro Martinez, with the latter’s rebound goal ruled out for handball.

Despite the early scare, Inter gradually took control and found a way back into the game, ensuring they continued their push for the Serie A title.