MILAN – Inter Milan launched their Serie A campaign with an emphatic 5-0 victory over Torino at San Siro, a performance that served as an undeniable declaration of intent for the new season. Under the watchful eye of new Romanian coach Cristian Chivu, the Nerazzurri delivered a masterclass in efficiency and tactical fluidity, dispelling any lingering doubts and signaling their ambitions to rivals Napoli and Juventus.
Chivu`s debut on the Inter bench was nothing short of spectacular, ending a curious 22-year drought for foreign coaches failing to win their opening Serie A match for the club. The last to achieve such a feat was Héctor Cúper in 2003. This resounding win was not just about the scoreline; it was a testament to the team`s cohesion and the seamless integration of new talent with established champions.
A Quintet of Goals: The Scoring Extravaganza
While Inter took a measured approach in the opening quarter-hour, assessing Torino`s strategy, their “diesel engine” soon ignited into a formidable force. The goals flowed with precision and power:
- 18th Minute: Alessandro Bastoni opened the scoring with a powerful flicked header from a Nicolò Barella corner, setting the tone for the evening.
- 35th Minute: Marcus Thuram doubled the lead with a clinical low shot after an exquisite through-ball from new midfield maestro Sucic. The Croatian`s vision was immediately evident, finding Thuram in space and demonstrating the burgeoning partnership.
- 52nd Minute: Lautaro Martinez, ever the predatory striker, capitalized on a defensive error from Gineitis, pouncing on a misplaced back-pass to slot home Inter`s third. It was the Argentine captain`s first goal of the season, a familiar sight for the San Siro faithful.
- 62nd Minute: Marcus Thuram secured his brace with a well-placed header to the far post, once again assisted by the ever-advancing Bastoni, who seems to have a knack for turning defensive duties into offensive delight.
- 72nd Minute: Ange-Yoan Bonny, a substitute making his absolute debut, announced his arrival with a decisive strike, expertly set up by Lautaro. Bonny`s immediate impact suggests he will be a potent weapon off the bench for Chivu throughout the season.
Chivu`s Vision: Fluidity as the Mantra
Cristian Chivu`s tactical philosophy, centered on “fluidity,” was on full display. Inter deployed their familiar 3-5-2 formation, but with a nuanced interpretation. The midfield trio showcased remarkable interchangeability, offering no fixed points of reference to the opposition. Barella, nominally starting as the deep-lying playmaker, ventured forward and wide, seamlessly swapping positions with Sucic. The Croatian, in particular, earned immense praise for his dynamic playmaking, two shots on target, and a crucial assist, proving himself an instant fan favorite at the Meazza.
The match also highlighted the continued reliability of core players. Yann Sommer made a couple of crucial saves, while the defensive bedrock of Bastoni and Acerbi remained solid. Wing-backs Federico Dimarco and Denzel Dumfries also delivered strong performances, underscoring the depth and quality across the squad. This blend of seasoned champions, fresh faces, and dynamic tactics suggests an exciting season ahead for the Nerazzurri.
The ThuLa Partnership Reignited
A significant takeaway from the match was the triumphant return to form for the “ThuLa” strike partnership of Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez. After what was described as a “shadowy and disappointing” 2025 for Thuram in the league, he demonstrated renewed vigor and sharpness, shouldering Inter`s attack with confidence. His two goals were a clear statement of redemption, further amplified by the presence of his father, the legendary Lilian Thuram, and brother Khéphren in the stands. This family affair added a poignant touch to a night that saw Thuram rediscover his clinical edge.
The collective performance, marked by individual brilliance and tactical discipline, leaves Inter well-positioned as they navigate the demanding Serie A schedule. This dominant opening fixture under Cristian Chivu not only secured three vital points but also laid down a formidable challenge to their title contenders, making it clear that the Nerazzurri mean business.
Elton Marrow