World Champion Lukas Podolski helped Inter maintain their chances to qualify for Europe, providing the assist for the winning goal after coming on as a substitute. Brought on in the 84th minute, Podolski set up Mauro Icardi's winner, which secured a 2-1 victory over Roma.
Podolski earned praise for his inspired appearance even from the Italian media, who have recently not held back with their criticism towards the former Bundesliga professional: "Podolski only had a short appearance, but still managed to make a great impact. His skill allowed Icardi to score the winner," wrote the Gazetta dello Sport on Sunday. "Inter finally have something to smile about again with their duo Podolski and Icardi," claimed Tuttosport. Corriere della Sera called Podolski's assist a "lightning strike in an otherwise difficult season."
Inter are currently seventh and still eyeing a fifth place finish, which would secure them a spot in next season's Europa League. Sampdoria Genoa, currently in fifth place, play SSC Napoli on Sunday evening.
Hernanes had fired Inter into the lead before Radja Nainggolan equalised for Roma in the second half. Podolski, on loan from Arsenal, and former FC Bayern player Xherdan Shaqiri were brought on late in the match. "Shaqiri and Podolski were great and gave the team a new impulse," praised Inter coach Roberto Mancini.
World Champion Lukas Podolski helped Inter maintain their chances to qualify for Europe, providing the assist for the winning goal after coming on as a substitute. Brought on in the 84th minute, Podolski set up Mauro Icardi's winner, which secured a 2-1 victory over Roma.
Podolski earned praise for his inspired appearance even from the Italian media, who have recently not held back with their criticism towards the former Bundesliga professional: "Podolski only had a short appearance, but still managed to make a great impact. His skill allowed Icardi to score the winner," wrote the Gazetta dello Sport on Sunday. "Inter finally have something to smile about again with their duo Podolski and Icardi," claimed Tuttosport. Corriere della Sera called Podolski's assist a "lightning strike in an otherwise difficult season."
Inter are currently seventh and still eyeing a fifth place finish, which would secure them a spot in next season's Europa League. Sampdoria Genoa, currently in fifth place, play SSC Napoli on Sunday evening.
Hernanes had fired Inter into the lead before Radja Nainggolan equalised for Roma in the second half. Podolski, on loan from Arsenal, and former FC Bayern player Xherdan Shaqiri were brought on late in the match. "Shaqiri and Podolski were great and gave the team a new impulse," praised Inter coach Roberto Mancini.
