In a Serie A match that concluded on January 16th, Beijing time, reigning champions Inter Milan were held to a draw by Bologna, missing out on a victory. The match at the San Siro saw Inter leading 2-1 at halftime before being pegged back in the second half, resulting in a 2-2 draw. While Inter fans were disappointed with the outcome, Argentine supporters were generally content. In 22 matches, an Argentine prodigy has scored 13 goals, shining in Serie A and potentially becoming a new ally for Messi in the 2026 World Cup.
During the match, two of the four goals were scored by Argentine players. Santiago Castro opened the scoring for Bologna, while Denzel Dumfries and Lautaro Martinez's goals helped Inter take the lead. However, Holm's goal allowed Bologna to equalize against Inter. Lautaro scored after receiving a cross from Dimarco, pushing the ball into the net from close range. Lautaro had previously gone eight games without scoring for Inter this season but has now scored three goals in his last five matches, gradually finding his form as the top scorer in Serie A.
Lautaro's compatriot, Castro, also scored a beautiful goal during the match. In the 15th minute, Bologna midfielder Moro played a shot-pass from outside the box, lofting the ball into the penalty area. Castro, while holding off De Vrij with his back to the goal, deflected the ball into the net without looking at the goal. This goal showcased Castro's abilities, with his strength, awareness, and shooting skills all on display, making experienced Serie A defender De Vrij a mere backdrop.
Castro began his career with Argentinian club Sarsfield and joined Bologna in Europe last January for a transfer fee of 13.2 million euros. Last season, he was a substitute forward under Motta, primarily rotating with Zirkzee. However, with Zirkzee's departure this season, Castro has received more opportunities under new coach Italiano. In his recent 22 appearances for Bologna, he has scored six goals and provided seven assists.
Bologna lost several key members last summer but has managed to rank eighth in Serie A this season, which is no easy feat (they are one game behind fourth-placed Lazio, trailing by six points; Bologna finished fifth last season). Castro's rise has injected some vitality into Bologna's frontline. In fact, he had already shown promise in last season's Serie A, scoring a goal and providing an assist in the 37th round against Juventus.
Castro's style is quite similar to Lautaro's, with his ability to run, charge, and comprehensive technical skills earning him the nickname "New Lautaro" from fans and attracting interest from Inter. Given Castro's abilities, it is only a matter of time before he makes his debut for the Argentine national team. In the next World Cup, he could become Messi's partner, helping him strive for another championship title.