Inter clinch Coppa Italia
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Article summary
Sinisa Mihajlovic's goal against AS Roma ensured FC Internazionale Milano's first domestic trophy since 1989.
Article body
Mihajlovic rocket
Sinisa Mihajlovic fired in a free-kick on 52 minutes at the Giuseppe Meazza which Gianluca Curci could only palm into his net, establishing a three-goal advantage for the Nerazzurri and sparking celebrations among home supporters.
Roma confined
Inter were worth their lead having been much the more dangerous side in the first half, Obafemi Martins causing problems with his pace and Mihajlovic hitting two long-range free-kicks with unerring accuracy. Roma were largely confined to long balls up to Antonio Cassano and Francesco Totti, and the introduction of Vincenzo Montella for Olivier Dacourt had little effect.
Cufré dismissed
Roma's Argentinian defender Leandro Cufré was sent off for a second bookable offence on 65 minutes, by which stage the tie was beyond doubt. Roma nevertheless qualify for the UEFA Cup as cup runners-up because Inter will enter the third qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League.
Long wait
Inter, who won Sunday's first leg with two goals from Adriano, were rarely troubled despite several players being on international duty. Their last domestic honour was the Serie A title won in 1989, although they have lifted the UEFA Cup three times since.
