Serie A 2024-25: Inter Milan Held to Stunning Draw by Monza After Late Drama

Inter Milan rescued a late 1-1 draw against Monza, thanks to Denzel Dumfries’ 88th-minute equalizer in Serie A 2024-25!

Inter Milan managed to avoid a shock defeat at the Brianteo Stadium as they fought back to secure a late 1-1 draw against a determined Monza side. A dramatic match saw the reigning champions struggle to break through the resolute defense of the Serie A underdogs, but a late equaliser from Denzel Dumfries saved them from a damaging loss.

A Dominant Yet Frustrating Start for Inter

Inter Milan vs Monza: Inter began the match as expected, commanding the bulk of possession in the opening stages. With Monza sitting deep and attempting to soak up pressure, the visitors had plenty of the ball but found it difficult to penetrate their opponent’s defense. Despite their dominance in possession, Inter struggled to create clear-cut chances, managing no shots on target within the first 20 minutes.

The best opportunity of the half came from captain Lautaro Martínez, whose curled effort narrowly missed the target, leaving Monza goalkeeper Stefano Turati untroubled. Martínez had another opportunity to break the deadlock in the 36th minute, but his effort from a Federico DiMarco pullback sailed over the bar.

Monza’s defense remained resolute, frustrating Inter’s attacking play. As the first half drew to a close, the game remained scoreless, with the hosts successfully holding off the champions’ attack.

Monza Grows into the Game

The second half resumed with a scrappy start, but Monza gradually grew into the game, showing more ambition and pressing Inter higher up the pitch. As the match progressed, Monza, who came into the game struggling in 17th place, began to look more comfortable on the ball, creating a few half-chances.

Inter, meanwhile, continued to lack sharpness in the final third, as their attempts to test Monza’s defense were either blocked or misfired. Their inability to put shots on target was becoming a concern, especially as Monza started to threaten at the other end.

Monza’s Late Shock: Mota’s Goal

The home crowd was sent into raptures in the 81st minute when Monza took a shock lead. Armando Izzo delivered a perfect corner, and Dany Mota rose to meet it with a powerful header, leaving Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer helpless. Mota’s strike not only gave Monza a stunning lead but also set up a nail-biting finish to the match.

With just nine minutes remaining, Monza looked to be on the verge of pulling off one of the biggest upsets of the season. Their resilience had paid off, and Inter, despite their earlier control of the game, found themselves trailing.

Dumfries to the Rescue: Inter’s Late Equaliser

Inter, however, refused to give up. As Monza dropped deeper to protect their lead, the visitors threw everything forward in search of an equaliser. Just two minutes before the end of normal time, Inter found their salvation through Denzel Dumfries.

A deflected cross fell perfectly to the Dutch defender, who tapped home from close range to rescue a point for his team. Dumfries’ timely intervention not only denied Monza a famous win but also ensured that Inter left the Brianteo Stadium with something to show for their efforts.

Inter’s Struggles Continue in Serie A 2024-25

Despite the late equalizer, Inter will be left frustrated by their inability to capitalize on their possession and dominance for much of the match. The Nerazzurri’s lack of cutting edge in the final third was evident, and although they managed to rescue a point, there will be concerns over their attacking efficiency.

Monza, on the other hand, will feel proud of their performance. A team that started the day just above the relegation zone showed tremendous discipline and resilience against the champions, coming within minutes of securing all three points.

Looking Ahead as Inter’s Title Ambitions Tested

For Inter Milan, this match serves as a reminder that even the lower-ranked teams in Serie A can pose significant challenges. While they remain among the favorites for the title, dropped points in games like these could prove costly. Their ability to maintain composure in tough situations was on display, but they will need to sharpen their attack as the season progresses.

Monza, despite being held to a draw, will take heart from their performance. A well-earned point against one of Italy’s top teams could serve as a springboard for them to climb out of the relegation battle. For now, they can celebrate the fact that they pushed the champions to their limit.