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

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Inter Milan kicked off the defence of their Serie A title in emphatic fashion on Saturday, cruising to a 4-1 home victory over promoted Monza.

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The Italian champions needed just six minutes to break the deadlock when Hakan Calhanoglu blasted in from distance.

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Monza, back in the top flight after a season in Serie B, levelled through Gustavo Varela in the 29th minute.

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Inter restored their advantage shortly after the restart, with Piotr Zielinski finding the net in the 48th minute.

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Pio Esposito, preferred in the starting line-up to Marcus Thuram, made it 3-1 eight minutes later with an inventive backheel finish from Andy Diouf’s cross.

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Yann Bisseck completed the scoring in the 63rd minute as Inter underlined their status as clear favourites to retain the Scudetto.

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John Stones, one of three England internationals signed by Inter during the close season, made his debut after coming on as a late substitute.

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Last season’s runners-up Napoli visit Genoa later on Saturday under new coach Massimiliano Allegri, who is looking to make a statement after being dismissed by AC Milan following just one season in charge.

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Milan and Juventus, both seeking redemption after disappointing campaigns and further summer overhauls, begin their league seasons on Sunday against Torino and Frosinone respectively.

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AFP

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