Inter Milan’s title defence hit an unexpected snag as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Monza in a thrilling Serie A encounter. The reigning champions needed a late equalizer from Denzel Dumfries to avoid a shock defeat after Dany Mota Carvalho had put the hosts ahead.
The Nerazzurri, rotating their squad ahead of crucial fixtures against Manchester City and AC Milan, struggled to break down a determined Monza side. Despite early chances for Federico Dimarco and Lautaro Martinez, Inter failed to capitalize on their opportunities.
As the match progressed, Monza grew in confidence and stunned the visitors when Dany Mota Carvalho headed home from Armando Izzo’s cross. The goal exposed Inter’s defensive lapse, as they had focused on marking Milan Djuric, allowing Carvalho to slip into the box unnoticed.
Inter’s response was swift and determined. Denzel Dumfries, who had earlier seen a header saved, found the equalizer by tapping in Carlos Augusto’s cross at the back post. The Nerazzurri pushed for a winner in the closing stages, with Davide Frattesi coming close, but Monza held firm to secure a valuable point.
Goals: Mota 81 (M), Dumfries 88 (I)
Monza (3-4-2-1): Turati; Izzo, Marì, Carboni; Pereira, Pessina, Bondo, Kyriakopoulos; Maldini (dal 72′ Bianco), Caprari (dal 62′ Mota); Djuric.
Inter (3-5-2): Sommer; Pavard, De Vrij, Carlos Augusto; Darmian (dal 56′ Dumfries), Frattesi, Asllani (dal 74′ Correa), Mkhitaryan (dal 56′ Zielinski), Dimarco; Thuram (dal 74′ Arnautovic), Lautaro Martinez (dal 56′ Taremi).
