Serie A - Inter Milan Win Without Arnautovic

A well-deserved victory against a relentless Lecce side.

Inter Milan extended their winning streak to four games with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Lecce at the Stadio Via del Mare on Sunday. The Nerazzurri were without new signing Marko Arnautovic, who was ineligible to play due to his recent transfer from Bologna. In his absence, Romelu Lukaku led the line for Inter and marked his return from injury with a goal.

Lecce started the match brightly and took the lead in the 32nd minute through Assan Ceesay. However, Inter responded well and drew level just seven minutes later through a stunning strike from Denzel Dumfries. The Dutchman received the ball on the right flank and cut inside before unleashing a powerful shot that flew into the top corner.

Lautaro Martínez scored the winner for Inter in the second half

Inter continued to press for a winner in the second half and were rewarded for their efforts in the 72nd minute. Lautaro Martínez latched onto a through ball from Nicolò Barella and slotted the ball past Wladimiro Falcone.

The win moved Inter up to second place in the Serie A table, two points behind leaders Napoli. It was a vital victory for the Nerazzurri, who are now in a strong position to challenge for the title this season.

Here are some additional highlights from the match:

• Romelu Lukaku made his first start for Inter since August after recovering from a thigh injury.
• Lautaro Martínez scored his seventh goal of the season in all competitions.
• Denzel Dumfries has now scored three goals in his last four games for Inter.
• Lecce have now lost three of their last four Serie A matches.