Inter Milan tightened their grip on the Serie A title race with a commanding 5-2 win over AS Roma at San Siro, but beyond the scoreline, this was a match that exposed the growing gap between the two sides.
Inter, led by a returning Lautaro Martinez, dismantled Roma with a performance built on clinical finishing and control after a brief mid-season dip, stretching their lead at the top to nine points with seven games remaining.
The urgency was clear. Inter had entered the game on a winless run and with pressure mounting after rivals closed the gap. But Martinez’s return changed the tone immediately. He scored inside the opening two minutes, taking his tally to 23 goals this season, and set the platform for what followed.
Roma did respond. Gianluca Mancini equalised before the break, briefly exposing Inter’s vulnerability in transition. But the timing of Hakan Calhanoglu’s long-range strike in stoppage time restored control and shifted momentum decisively.
The second half showed why Inter remain favourites for the title. Martinez added his second early after the restart, both goals assisted by Marcus Thuram, who finished with two assists and a goal. Nicolo Barella then made it 5-1, effectively ending the contest before the hour mark.
Roma’s late goal through Lorenzo Pellegrini only highlighted the pattern that has defined their season. This was the 12th goal they have conceded in their last five league matches, underlining defensive issues that continue to derail their campaign.
The difference lay in efficiency and structure. Inter converted pressure into goals at key moments, while Roma struggled to manage transitions and defensive organisation once the game opened up.
For Inter, this was more than just a win. It was a response to recent inconsistency and a reminder of their attacking depth, having now scored five goals in a league game multiple times this season. For Roma, it was another indication that their issues are not isolated to results but rooted in recurring defensive lapses.
With the title race entering its final stretch, Inter have regained control — and with Martinez back leading the line, their advantage now looks increasingly decisive.
Martinez’s brace helps Inter rout Roma 5-2
