FC Internazionale Milano's resurgence under Leonardo continued with a thrilling 3-2 victory against AC Cesena on a night when UC Sampdoria and AS Roma advanced in the Coppa Italia.

Having taken charge with the Nerazzurri 13 points adrift of leaders AC Milan, Leonardo has guided Inter to within six of their city rivals with a game in hand courtesy of a fourth successive Serie A win. Samuel Eto'o (14) set the ball rolling at San Siro with his fifth goal in three games after exchanging passes with Diego Milito.

The latter swiftly doubled the lead when Goran Pandev set him up for a simple tap-in, yet the visitors were level by the 29th minute through Erjon Bogdani and Emanuele Giaccherini. Cristian Chivu struck the decisive blow, though, heading in Maicon's cross on the stroke of half-time. Cesena, who stay fourth from bottom, had Giaccherini dismissed 16 minutes from time.

In the Coppa Italia, Sampdoria prevailed 5-4 on penalties against Udinese Calcio despite having Daniele Dessena sent off in the first period of extra time. That set up a quarter-final tie with Milan or AS Bari, who play on Thursday, while Roma meet Juventus after defeating S.S. Lazio 2-1 thanks to Fábio Simplício (77) after both teams had scored from the spot.

Results

Standings

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