Cheddira scores late to make it tense, but Inter holds on for crucial win
Inter returned to winning ways in Serie A with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Sassuolo at San Siro, ending a two-game losing streak. Goals from Federico Dimarco and Carlos Augusto put Cristian Chivu’s side in control, but a late strike from Walid Cheddira set up a tense finale.
The Nerazzurri came out strong and took the lead early in the first half. In the 14th minute, Sucic produced a moment of brilliance to find Dimarco in space, and the wing-back made no mistake with a precise finish past Muric.
Inter continued to dominate possession and looked dangerous going forward, while Sassuolo threatened only on the counterattack through Laurienté. Despite several chances, Inter couldn’t extend their lead before halftime.
In the closing stages, it appeared Inter had sealed the three points when Carlos Augusto’s deflected shot found the back of the net in the 81st minute to make it 2-0. However, Sassuolo responded immediately. Domenico Berardi delivered a perfect assist for Cheddira, who scored just three minutes later to keep the game alive.
Frattesi thought he had restored Inter’s two-goal cushion, but his strike was ruled out for offside after a VAR review. Inter then held firm during stoppage time to secure a vital win and move back up the table, while Sassuolo left empty-handed despite their late rally.
Match Report
Scorers: 14’ Dimarco (Inter), 81’ Carlos Augusto (Inter), 84’ Cheddira (Sassuolo)
Inter (3-5-2): Martinez; Akanji, Acerbi, Carlos Augusto; Dumfries (Luis Henrique 64’), Barella, Calhanoglu (Frattesi 64’), Sucic, Dimarco; Thuram (Lautaro 64’), P. Esposito (Bonny 77’).
Coach: Chivu
Sassuolo (4-3-3): Muric; Coulibaly (Pierini 91’), Idzes, Muharemovic, Doig; Vranckx (Volpato 68’), Matic, Koné (Thorstvedt 68’); Berardi, Pinamonti (Cheddira 77’), Laurienté (Fadera 68’).
Coach: Grosso
Referee: Marinelli
Yellow cards: Calhanoglu (Inter), Dimarco (Inter), Muharemovic (Sassuolo)
