Inter Milan Defeat Lazio to Set Up Coppa Italia Semi-Final Derby with AC Milan
Inter Milan secured a thrilling 2-0 victory over Lazio in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals, setting up a mouth-watering semi-final clash with city rivals AC Milan. The victory at the San Siro extended Inter’s impressive unbeaten home run to 16 games across all competitions (W13, D3), as Marko Arnautovic and Hakan Calhanoglu delivered crucial goals to knock Lazio out of the competition.
Fast-Paced Start with High Intensity
The game kicked off with both sides showing early intent, engaging in physical battles all over the pitch. Lazio opted for a defensive setup, looking to hit Inter on the counterattack, while the Nerazzurri controlled possession and dictated the tempo.
Lazio’s approach almost paid off in the early stages when Boulaye Dia’s deflected effort narrowly missed the target, looping just wide of the post. Meanwhile, Gustav Isaksen tested Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez with a couple of long-range efforts, but the Spaniard remained alert to deny the Lazio forward.
Arnautovic’s Stunning Strike Breaks the Deadlock
Despite Lazio’s disciplined defense, Inter found the breakthrough just before halftime, and it came in spectacular fashion. A set-piece clearance from Lazio sent the ball high into the air, but Marko Arnautovic showcased his technique and experience, unleashing a sensational first-time volley from 30 yards out. The ball rocketed past Christos Mandas, leaving the Lazio goalkeeper with no chance and sending the San Siro crowd into a frenzy.
STUNNING! Take a bow Arnautovic! pic.twitter.com/xlDY3LmmqO
— Nima Tavallaey Roodsari (@NimaTavRood) February 25, 2025
The goal not only gave Inter the lead but also shifted the momentum firmly in their favor heading into the second half. Lazio, however, refused to back down, with Maurizio Sarri urging his side forward in search of an equalizer.
Lazio’s Second-Half Fightback Falls Short
Lazio came out stronger after the break, with Isaksen continuing to be their most dangerous player. The Danish winger dribbled his way into the penalty area before unleashing a low-driven shot, but once again, Martinez was equal to the task, making a vital save to keep Inter ahead.
As the visitors grew in confidence, they began testing Inter’s defense with more direct play. A powerful shot from close range forced another save from Martinez, who showcased his reflexes to keep Lazio at bay. With time running out, Lazio pushed more men forward, creating spaces for Inter to exploit on the counterattack.
Calhanoglu Seals the Win from the Penalty Spot
With Lazio committing bodies forward, Inter capitalized on a defensive lapse to earn a penalty in the 75th minute. Joaquin Correa, a former Lazio player, made a driving run into the box before being brought down clumsily by a late challenge. The referee wasted no time in pointing to the spot, awarding Inter a golden opportunity to put the game beyond Lazio’s reach.
As Lazio players protested the decision, Hakan Calhanoglu remained composed, waiting patiently before stepping up to take the penalty. The Turkish midfielder coolly sent Mandas the wrong way, placing his shot into the bottom corner to double Inter’s advantage.
The goal sealed Inter’s place in the semi-finals and crushed any hopes of a late Lazio comeback. The final minutes saw Simone Inzaghi’s men control possession and slow down the game, ensuring there would be no dramatic late twists.
A Milan Derby Awaits in the Semi-Finals
With the win, Inter now turn their focus to a highly anticipated Coppa Italia semi-final showdown against AC Milan. The Milan Derby will add another chapter to one of football’s greatest rivalries, as both sides battle for a place in the final.
Milan and Inter will meet again. #CoppaItaliaFrecciarossa pic.twitter.com/lL5smaRxF5
— Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) February 25, 2025
Inter’s unbeaten home record remains intact, and their ability to navigate high-pressure knockout games will give them confidence heading into the next stage of the competition. Lazio, on the other hand, will be left ruing their missed chances, as they bow out of the Coppa Italia and shift focus back to their Serie A campaign.
With their title hopes still alive on multiple fronts, Inter Milan’s dominant display against Lazio sends a strong message to their rivals. Now, all eyes turn to the derby, where they will face AC Milan in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
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