Inter Milan Player Ratings vs Como: Marcus Thuram Shines in Solid San Siro Win

Inter Milan showcased a dominant first-half performance to claim a 2-0 victory against Como at the Giuseppe Meazza. Goals from Francesco Esposito and Marcus Thuram sealed the win as Inter controlled the match tactically and defensively.

The hosts wasted no time taking control. Esposito opened the scoring in the 12th minute, assisted by the impressive Djed Spence. Just seven minutes later, Thuram doubled the lead, settling the contest well before the 20-minute mark. Inter’s compactness in midfield disrupted Como’s attempts to build attacks, restricting them to only one shot on target throughout the entire game.

Como managed more possession in the second half with 57%, but Inter remained dangerous on counters, boasting an expected goals (xG) of 1.86 compared to Como’s 0.20. Cristian Chivu’s side showed great defensive discipline, making 12 interceptions and winning most physical battles. The pace slowed after halftime, but the damage was done early, helping Inter inch closer to the Serie A summit.

Goalkeeper and Defensive Line

• Josep Martinez: 7/10 – Had a quiet day with just one save needed. His distribution helped bypass Como's press and he commanded his box well during rare crosses.
• Alessandro Bastoni: 7/10 – Served as a secondary playmaker from left in the back three, solid defensively and crucial in keeping a clean sheet.
• Manuel Akanji: 7/10 – Provided stability centrally, maintained excellent positioning to cut off service to Como’s striker Douvikas.
• Carlos Augusto: 7/10 – Adapted well in the back three, covering behind Dimarco and actively involved in defensive duties contributing to the team’s 12 interceptions.

Midfield Performances

• Federico Dimarco: 7/10 – Threatened down the left flank until late substitution, delivered quality crosses and tracked back effectively to neutralize threats.
• Djed Spence: 8/10 – Outstanding wing-back display with an assist for the opener, used his speed and direct runs to trouble Como’s defense consistently.
• Piotr Zielinski: 7/10 – Controlled the tempo with smart movement and quick passing before being subbed off in the 72nd minute.
• Nicolo Barella: 8/10 – Led energetically from midfield, covering lots of ground and breaking up Como’s rhythm with key recoveries.
• Hakan Calhanoglu: 7/10 – Operated in his usual deep role, orchestrating play through 493 passes and looking for wing-backs until replaced late.

Attack

• Francesco Esposito: 8/10 – Clinical finish for the opener, kept pressure on Como defenders throughout despite receiving a yellow card before his substitution.
• Marcus Thuram: 8/10 – Demonstrated his importance to Inter’s system with a smartly timed and finished goal. He led the attack intelligently, stretching the defense until his late exit.

Substitutes and Manager

• Henrikh Mkhitaryan: 6/10 – Added fresh legs in midfield after coming on at 72 minutes to help close out the game.
• Ange-Yoan Bonny: 6/10 – Replaced Esposito, brought physicality and helped maintain pressing intensity late on.
• Peter Sucic: 6/10 – Came on for Calhanoglu and kept the midfield control simple and steady.
• Andy Diouf: N/A – Late sub with little time to influence the match.
• Benjamin Pavard: N/A – Entered in the final moments to reinforce defense.
• Cristian Chivu: 8/10 – Set his team up perfectly to exploit Como’s weaknesses early. His tactical decisions ensured a comfortable win without excessive exertion.