RIYADH — Inter's manager, Simone Inzaghi, lauded Lautaro Martinez for his leadership after the club's captain scored a last-minute goal securing a thrilling 1-0 victory over Napoli in the EA SPORTS FC Supercup at Al Awwal Park. The tension-filled match, which seemed headed for penalties, saw Martinez deliver his 21st goal of the season in stoppage time, capitalizing on a cross from Benjamin Pavard.
Martinez's decisive goal sparked jubilant celebrations among Inter's players, staff, and supporters. Inzaghi, speaking in the post-final press conference, praised Martinez's outstanding performance over the past six months, highlighting his role as a leader and captain for the team. The manager expressed delight for the fans in Saudi Arabia and those who traveled from Milan.
This victory marks Inter's third consecutive Supercup win and their second in Riyadh, following last year’s triumph over AC Milan. Despite Napoli playing the final 30 minutes with 10 men due to Giovanni Simeone's red card, Inzaghi acknowledged the tough challenge posed by the Serie A champions, stating, “Napoli gave their all, and we stayed focused to eventually find the goal that secured this important trophy.”
In addition to celebrating the Supercup victory, Inzaghi paid homage to Italian football icon Gigi Riva, who passed away on the same day at the age of 79. Remembered as Italy’s all-time leading goalscorer, Inzaghi expressed his personal reflections, saying, “I had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy is immense, and he will be greatly missed.”
The 36th Supercoppa Italiana, hosted for the fourth time in Saudi Arabia, showcased the country's commitment to hosting top-tier international sporting events. The event underlines Saudi Arabia's growing role in the global sports arena, emphasizing its capability to host and organize major tournaments.
