MILAN: Defending champion Inter Milan began its defence of the Serie A title with a crushing 4-1 win over Monza at the San Siro on Saturday.
Cristian Chivu’s side took an early lead courtesy of a thumping finish from midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu, but the visitor produced a stunning equaliser close to the half-an-hour mark after Mathis Mout turned Manuel Akanji and fired home on his Serie A debut.
Inter reclaimed the lead just three minutes after half-time thanks to a goal from Piotr Zielinski, who volleyed a punch from goalkeeper Semuel Pizzignacco into the ground and over the stranded keeper’s head. Eight minutes later, a clever flick from Pio Esposito doubled Inter’s lead to leave it comfortably placed.
The result was sealed by a deflected strike from Yann Bisseck as Inter got its title defence off to the perfect start. There was also time for debuts for Manuel Akanji and John Stones — both of whom have joined from Manchester City — while fellow new signings Djed Spence and Curtis Jones were present in the stands.
Massimiliano Allegri has taken over from Antonio Conte at last season’s runner-up Napoli, and Allegri got his reign off to a winning start against Genoa after substitutes Kevin De Bruyne and Antonio Vergara both found the net late on. Agencies
Also Read: Assam: NVS National Girls' Football Tournament concludes in Biswanath