Inter Milan Thrashes Monza 4-1 in Serie A Opener

Inter Milan commenced their Serie A title defense on Saturday with a dominant 4-1 victory over promoted Monza at home. The match saw Hakan Calhanoglu score the opening goal just six minutes in with a powerful shot from distance.

Monza equalized in the 29th minute through Gustavo Varela. However, Inter regained the lead shortly after halftime with Piotr Zielinski scoring in the 48th minute.

Pio Esposito, who started over Marcus Thuram, extended the lead to 3-1 with a creative backheel finish from Andy Diouf’s cross in the 56th minute. Yann Bisseck capped off the scoring in the 63rd minute, affirming Inter's position as favorites to retain the Scudetto.

John Stones, one of three England internationals signed by Inter during the summer transfer window, made his debut as a late substitute. Later on the same day, last season's runners-up Napoli were set to face Genoa under new coach Massimiliano Allegri.