Inter thrash Monza 4-1 to launch Serie A title defence

Inter Milan launched their Serie A title defense with a commanding 4-1 victory over promoted Monza at the San Siro stadium. The Italian champions wasted little time in asserting their dominance, breaking the deadlock in the sixth minute with a powerful long-range strike from Hakan Calhanoglu.

Monza, making their return to the top flight, managed to equalize in the 29th minute through Gustavo Varela. However, Inter quickly reasserted control after halftime. Piotr Zielinski restored Inter's lead in the 48th minute, and Pio Esposito extended it with an inventive backheel finish eight minutes later. Yann Bisseck rounded off the scoring in the 63rd minute, underlining Inter's status as clear favorites to retain the Scudetto.

Inter coach Cristian Chivu acknowledged a somewhat sluggish start, telling DAZN, "We were a bit rusty during the first half, a bit too frantic as well." He added, "We regained our calm and clarity after the break," highlighting the team's improved performance in the second half.

In other Serie A news, last season's surprise package Como secured a 1-1 draw against Udinese, with Greece forward Tasos Douvikas scoring a second-half equalizer. Como will make their Champions League debut next month after finishing fourth under manager Cesc Fabregas. Meanwhile, Napoli, last season's runners-up, were set to visit Genoa later on Saturday under new coach Massimiliano Allegri. Milan and Juventus, both aiming for redemption after disappointing campaigns, begin their seasons on Sunday.

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We were a bit rusty during the first half, a bit too frantic as well. We regained our calm and clarity after the break.