Inter Milan delivered a commanding performance against Ajax, claiming a 2-0 victory in the UEFA Champions League with Marcus Thuram as the standout hero. The French forward struck twice, both times converting Hakan Calhanoglu's set-pieces, to assert his dominance in the early part of the season. Thuram, who has now scored five goals in four matches across all competitions, provided the finishing touch that underscored Inter's confidence as they aim to recover from last season's heartbreaking final defeat by Paris St-Germain.
Manager Cristian Chivu, who took over after Simone Inzaghi's exit, retained eight players from the Munich lineup, and the team responded with a cohesive and assured display. Thuram's presence alone was a significant factor, as he posed a constant threat despite captain Lautaro Martinez's absence due to a back injury. The striker's first goal came just before the halftime break, while his second extended Inter's lead in the second half, sealing the win for the Nerazzurri.
Ajax had a fleeting chance to alter the narrative when 20-year-old Belgian winger Mika Godts missed a golden opportunity in the closing minutes of the first half. However, Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer made a crucial stop, denying Godts after a VAR review overturned an initial penalty decision against the hosts. The match highlighted Inter's resilience and tactical discipline, with Calhanoglu's set-pieces proving instrumental in their success.
Inter Milan will next face Slavia Prague at the San Siro on Tuesday, 30 September, while Ajax travels to Marseille for their upcoming fixture. The result reinforces Inter's ambitions in this season's competition, with Thuram's form and Chivu's leadership shaping a promising campaign.
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