Inter Milan secured a vital 1-0 win over Udinese at the Stadio Friuli, thanks to a first‑time strike from Lautaro Martínez in the 71st minute. The victory marked Inter’s eighth win in nine league games, pushed them to 55 points, and widened their lead at the top of Serie A to three points over Napoli.
Match Overview
Both sides started with strong line‑ups. Inter deployed a 3‑5‑2 formation, while Udinese lined up in a 3‑5‑1‑1. Inter dominated possession with 62 % and generated 13 shots, five of which required a save from Udinese goalkeeper Orestis Solet. Udinese managed only five attempts, one on target.
Key Moment: Lautaro’s Goal
In the 71st minute, Nicolo Barella delivered a low cross from the left. Lautaro Martínez timed his run perfectly and struck first‑time, sending the ball into the bottom right corner past Solet. The goal not only broke the deadlock but also highlighted Martínez’s resurgence as a decisive scorer for the Nerazzurri.
Statistical Snapshot
- Possession: Inter 62 % – Udinese 38 %
- Shots (on target): Inter 13 (5) – Udinese 5 (1)
- Expected Goals (xG): Inter 1.50 – Udinese 0.23
- Pass Accuracy: Inter 86 % – Udinese 78 %
Title Race Context
Inter’s win moves them to 55 points after 21 games, extending their lead at the summit and reinforcing their status as favourites for the Scudetto. Napoli, sitting second, must win their upcoming match against Juventus to stay within striking distance, while AC Milan trails by six points and needs a strong run.
Tactical Analysis
Simone Inzaghi’s high‑press strategy forced Udinese into errors and limited their ability to build from the back. The rotation of full‑backs, especially Hakim Ziyech, combined with a midfield pivot between Barella and Calhanoglu, allowed Inter to control the central channels. The dual‑striker system gave Lautaro the freedom to exploit half‑spaces.
Udinese’s three‑man defence aimed to stay compact, but the lack of a creative outlet in the final third reduced their threat. An early substitution of Alessandro Bastoni for a more attacking option failed to generate clear‑cut chances.
Future Fixtures
Inter travel to Bologna for their next Serie A clash, looking to extend their unbeaten streak and maintain pressure on Napoli. Udinese return home to face Empoli, a match that could be crucial in their battle to escape the relegation zone.
