Verona defeated at the last minute, Inter Milan closes in on the top spot in Serie A

In the 16th minute, the visitors scored the opening goal from a set-piece. Hakan Calhanoglu delivered a precise corner kick, allowing Piotr Zielinski to strike a perfect volley that flew into the top corner, leaving the Verona goalkeeper helpless. This early goal boosted Inter’s confidence, enabling them to control most of the possession and actively mount attacks.

However, Verona did not surrender easily. Under the leadership of Gift Orban and Giovane, the hosts launched fast counterattacks late in the first half.

At the 40th minute, from Orban’s clever through pass, Giovane broke free and finished with a diagonal shot to beat Yann Sommer, bringing the score back to level. The equalizer energized the atmosphere at Bentegodi, and Verona played with enthusiasm, repeatedly firing long-range shots that forced Inter’s defense to work hard.

In the second half, coach Cristian Chivu boosted the attack by introducing Barella, Dumfries, and young talent Francesco Pio Esposito. Inter dominated possession at 68%, creating many dangerous chances but lacked precision in finishing.

Just when the match seemed destined for a draw, a decisive moment came in the final stoppage time. From a right-wing corner, the ball bounced inside the box and fell perfectly for Francesco Pio Esposito, who quickly shot from close range to secure a dramatic 2-1 win for the visitors.

The full three points help Inter Milan continue to chase the Serie A leaders, trailing Napoli by just one point, while maintaining their momentum in the title race.

For Verona, though they lost at home, their determined performance against the "blue and black giants" deserved applause from the supporters.

+Scorers: Giovane 40' - Zielinski 16', Frese 90+3' - own goal

+Starting lineups:

Verona: Montipo, Bella-Kotchap, Nelsson, Bradaric, Belghali, Bernede, Gagliardini, Akpa, Frese, Orban, Giovane

Inter Milan:Sommer, Akanji, Bisseck, Bastoni, Henrique, Zielinski, Calhanoglu, Sucic, Carlos Augusto, Bonny, Lautaro Martinez

+Latest Serie A standings