Inter Milan opened their Serie A title defense with a thrilling 2-2 draw against Genoa on August 17, 2024. The champions were looking to start the season with a win but were denied by late penalty drama. Former AC Milan attacker Junior Messias scored a last-minute equalizer for Genoa after Inter defender Yann Bisseck was penalized for handball. This late goal canceled out Marcus Thuram’s brace, which had put Inter in the lead after Alessandro Vogliacco’s early opener for Genoa.
Thuram, the French forward, was the standout player for Inter Milan in this match. He thought he had secured a victory for his team with a delicately chipped goal in the closing minutes of the game. Initially ruled offside, the goal was eventually awarded after a VAR check. Thuram had earlier equalized for Inter with a perfectly placed header from Nicolo Barella’s cross. He also forced two excellent saves from Genoa’s goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini and won a penalty that was later revoked after a review by the officials.
The match between Genoa and Inter Milan was a rollercoaster of emotions for both teams and their fans. Genoa took an early lead through Vogliacco’s goal but were soon pegged back by Thuram’s equalizer. Inter then took the lead through Thuram’s second goal, only to be denied victory by Messias’ late penalty. The draw will feel like a missed opportunity for Inter, who were hoping to kick off their title defense with a statement win. Despite the disappointment of dropping two points, there were positives to take for coach Simone Inzaghi as his team showed character and resilience.
Promoted Parma also had an exciting debut in Serie A, playing out a 1-1 draw with Fiorentina. Both teams scored with impressive strikes from Dennis Man and Cristiano Biraghi. The Serie A season promises to be full of action and drama, with several teams showcasing their talents and determination in the opening matches. AC Milan and Torino began their campaigns later that day, while Empoli hosted Monza in another late match. Serie A fans can look forward to an exciting season with intense competition and memorable moments on the horizon.
