On January 3rd, the Italian Super Cup semi-final saw Inter Milan face off against Atalanta. Thanks to a stunning bicycle kick and a world-class strike from defender Denzel Dumfries, Inter Milan emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, marking their seventh consecutive victory in the Derby della Madonnina and securing their fourth consecutive entry into the final of the Italian Super Cup.
The match took place at King Saud University Stadium in Saudi Arabia. In the first half, Atalanta's goalkeeper put on a heroic display, keeping the goal intact. However, in the second half, Inter Milan intensified their offensive efforts. In the 49th minute, during an Inter Milan corner kick, there was chaos in the penalty area. Dumfries managed to head the ball and then executed a spectacular bicycle kick, scoring the opening goal for a 1-0 lead.
In the 61st minute, it was Dumfries again who made the difference. Inter Milan launched a counter-attack, and due to a defensive error by Atalanta, Dumfries found himself outside the penalty area. He unleashed a powerful shot that soared into the net, doubling the lead to 2-0!
Ultimately, Inter Milan secured their victory with a 2-0 scoreline. Throughout the game, they maintained a 52% possession rate, attempted 21 shots with 6 on target, demonstrating a proactive approach that left Atalanta with few opportunities. This win marks Inter Milan's fourth consecutive appearance in the Super Cup final, having won the title in each of the previous three years.
Atalanta currently tops the Serie A table, leading Inter Milan by just one point, although Inter Milan have a game in hand. Due to Atalanta's home kit also being black and blue, fans often jokingly refer to them as another Nerazzurri. However, when facing the true Nerazzurri, Atalanta has fallen short. Over the past three seasons, Atalanta has challenged Inter Milan seven times, only to suffer defeat each time.
During this match, Lautaro Martinez's performance was abysmal. In the 70th minute, he missed a close-range shot that was saved, which was quite surprising. Then, in the 94th minute, he broke into the penalty area but his shot went wide of the far post, causing Inter Milan's coach Simone Inzaghi to shake his head in disbelief.
What further frustrated Inter Milan fans was Lautaro's outburst towards his teammates. In the closing stages of the game, during an Inter Milan attack, Lautaro positioned himself at the back post, expecting a pass. However, Bastoni at the front post decided to shoot instead of passing. This decision angered Lautaro, who kicked the post in frustration, venting his anger.