Denzel Dumfries delivered a standout performance, scoring two crucial goals to secure Inter Milan's 2-0 win against Atalanta in Riyadh on Thursday. This victory propels the Serie A champions to the Italian Super Cup final, where they aim to claim the trophy for the fourth consecutive time.
Inter will face the winner of the upcoming clash between Juventus and AC Milan in the final showdown. Manager Simone Inzaghi fielded his strongest available eleven, demonstrating confidence in his squad's depth and talent.
Atalanta's manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, made strategic decisions by benching key players Ademola Lookman and Charles De Ketelaere, despite missing top scorer Mateo Retegui due to injury. The first half remained goalless, largely thanks to Atalanta's goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi, who made impressive saves to deny Lautaro Martinez and Federico Dimarco.
The deadlock was broken in the second half when Dumfries scored his first goal with a powerful overhead shot following a precise header in the six-yard box. Shortly after, Dumfries struck again with a blistering first-time effort off the crossbar, leaving Carnesecchi with no chance.
Inter's defensive resilience and Dumfries' individual brilliance were pivotal in overcoming Atalanta's challenges. Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni praised Dumfries' performance, stating, \"Individual talent must shine and today Denzel did just this.\"
Despite Atalanta's attempts to mount a comeback, Inter maintained control and sealed their place in the Super Cup final with their disciplined and dynamic play.
Reference(s):
Dumfries' double fires Inter to Super Cup final with win over Atalanta
cgtn.com
