After failing to hit his usual heights thus far into the campaign, Lautaro Martínez was the difference maker for the Nerrazzuri in Rome as he so often was on Inter's way to winning the scudetto last campaign.
The Argentine's clinical finish in the second half came after he expertly controlled the ball on the edge of the area before firing past Mile Svilar to put the visitors in front.
The form of Martínez moving forward will be decisive as Inter look to keep leaders Napoli within touching distance. But
Goalkeepers steal the show in fierce battle
Both Mile Svilar of Roma and Yann Sommer of Inter delivered standout performances on Sunday evening.
The first half saw numerous chances for both sides. However, the saves from the pair kept the clash goalless until Inter's breakthrough via Martínez in the second half.
Svilar's one-handed stop to deny Denzel Dumfries and Sommer's last-minute dive to keep out a powerful strike from Matìas Soule were key moments in an encounter that provided excellent viewing for the goalkeeper's union.
Injury concerns for Inter
The departures of Hakan Çalhanoğlu and Francesco Acerbi due to injury were early blows suffered by Inter. Çalhanoğlu was forced to leave the pitch after just 12 minutes, with Acerbi following soon after.
Simone Inzaghi will naturally carry concerns regarding the availability of his players with Champions League football returning this week after the international break.
Çalhanoğlu in particular is one of Inzaghi's key contributors, and an extended period on the sidelines would be far from ideal for both the midfielder and the Nerrazzuri themselves.
Roma's errors prove costly
Despite putting up a valiant fight, Roma's inability to convert their chances alongside technical errors in crucial moments cost them dearly.
Coach Ivan Juric pointed out that his team played well after a timid start, but admitted that the goal in which they eventually conceded was avoidable. Juric also highlighted the need for Roma to improve in the final third if they want to compete with top-tier sides like Inter.
The loss leaves Roma sat in 10th, with ten points from their opening matches being far below their aspirations.
Inter's victory places them just two points behind Napoli, with the reigning champions looking to retain their crown.
