Inter Secure Champions League Victory Over Ajax with Dominant Thuram Performance
Amsterdam, Netherlands – Inter Milan began their champions League campaign with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Ajax at the Johan Cruijff Arena.A brace from Marcus Thuram,including a frist-half penalty,propelled the Nerazzurri to a win that felt remarkably serene,described by Paolo Tomaselli as a “stop in beauty farm overlooking the channels of Amsterdam.”
the match saw Inter manager Simone Inzaghi make a notable change to the starting lineup, giving 20-year-old Esposito his Champions League debut due to Lautaro Martinez’s last-minute absence with lower back pain.Martinez was limited to gymnasium work in the changing rooms prior to the match, while De Vrij started in place of Acerbi and Dimarco returned to the team.
Despite a cautious start, Inter gradually gained control.After a period of pressure from Ajax, led by captain Davy Klaassen, Inter began to leverage Thuram more effectively. In the 30th minute, Thuram was brought down in the penalty area by Baas, leading to a penalty awarded by referee Oliver. While the VAR,Australian Gillett (recently subject to controversy due to his alleged Liverpool fandom),reviewed the play,the decision stood. Thuram converted the penalty, opening the scoring for Inter.
Ajax responded with a risky attack, forcing a crucial save from Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer on a shot from Godts. This proved to be a pivotal moment, as Inter doubled their lead just minutes later.Thuram headed home a corner from Hakan Calhanoglu, marking his second goal of the night.
The second half saw Inter maintain their dominance. Calhanoglu delivered another pinpoint corner, again finding Thuram for a headed goal, extending Inter’s lead. The Dutch defense appeared vulnerable on both occasions.
Following the goal, inter managed the remainder of the match with composure, preventing any meaningful comeback attempts from Ajax. The victory provides a positive start to Inter’s Champions league journey and a boost to morale after a win against Torino in their serie A opener.
The report also highlights the encouraging performance of young Esposito on his Champions League debut.Inter’s upcoming schedule includes matches against Sassuolo, Cagliari, Slavia prague, and Cremonese, offering opportunities to build momentum.