Inter Milan and Udinese served up a spectacular eight-goal thriller at the San Siro on Tuesday night, with the hosts eventually prevailing 5-3 in a match that swung one way and then the other before Inter's class told in the final 20 minutes.

Match Overview

Serie A fans were treated to a classic as Inter and Udinese traded blows in a breathtaking contest. Udinese took a shock early lead through a swift counter, but Inter responded with three goals in a dominant first-half spell. The visitors refused to lie down, pulling two goals back either side of half-time to level at 3-3. However, Inter's superior quality shone through as they scored twice late on to secure a vital three points.

Key Moments

• 8' – Udinese take the lead as Lorenzo Lucca finishes a rapid break.
• 19' – Lautaro Martinez equalises with a trademark sharp finish.
• 27' – Marcus Thuram puts Inter ahead, nodding in from a corner.
• 41' – Hakan Calhanoglu makes it 3-1 with a precise free-kick.
• 58' – Udinese pull one back through Florian Thauvin's penalty.
• 72' – Sandi Lovric levels the scores with a stunning long-range strike.
• 79' – Nicolo Barella restores Inter's lead with a low drive.
• 88' – Martinez seals his brace and the win on the counter.

Tactical Story

Inter started with a 3-5-2, but Udinese's high press caused early problems. After going behind, Inter switched to a more direct approach, using the pace of Thuram and Martinez to stretch the Udinese defence. The midfield trio of Barella, Calhanoglu, and Mkhitaryan gradually took control. Udinese's decision to play a high line was punished repeatedly, but their own attacking play was sharp, exploiting space behind Inter's wing-backs. Defensively, both sides were porous, but Inter's firepower ultimately made the difference.

Standout Players

Lautaro Martinez was the standout, scoring twice and leading the line with intensity. Nicolo Barella's energy and late goal were crucial. For Udinese, Florian Thauvin was a constant menace, while Sandi Lovric's goal was a moment of pure quality. However, Udinese's defence will be disappointed with the manner of the goals conceded.

Table Impact

This victory keeps Inter in the hunt for the Serie A title, maintaining pressure on their rivals. Udinese, despite the defeat, showed they can compete with the best on their day, but they remain in mid-table. Inter's next fixture is a tough away trip, while Udinese must tighten up at the back to avoid slipping further.