Inter Milan 3-2 Juventus – Legendary Former AC Milan Coach Backs Scudetto Importance Of Derby Win But ‘Highlights Weaknesses’ | OneFootball

Former AC Milan coach Arrigo Sacchi believes Inter’s 3-2 Derby d’Italia win over Juventus FC could prove decisive in the Scudetto race, but warns that clear weaknesses remain.

Writing in La Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInter1908, Sacchi described the victory as typical Inter: hard-fought and full of pride.

He underlined its importance in the title race, especially with Inter holding an eight-point advantage over second-placed Milan, albeit with a game in hand.

However, he stressed that Cristian Chivu must address recurring defensive lapses, particularly with Champions League fixtures ahead.

Inter 3-2 Juventus – Sacchi: ‘Scudetto Favourites Inter The Strongest In Italy’

MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 14: Francesco Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Sacchi argued that Inter are the strongest side in Italy from a technical and physical standpoint. Yet he pointed to worrying “blackouts” during matches.

In the first half, he preferred Juventus’ organization and clarity of ideas. He also praised Luciano Spalletti for deploying Weston McKennie effectively.

According to Sacchi, Inter took the lead through a fortunate episode but failed to control the game afterward.

Juventus deserved their equaliser, which exposed poor positioning and defensive inattentiveness, particularly questioning Luis Henrique’s awareness on the play.

The second yellow card shown to Pierre Kalulu shifted the momentum. From that point, Inter dominated possession.

Sacchi praised Francesco Pio Esposito as a major asset for both club and Italy’s national team.

He described Piotr Zieliński’s winner as a moment of liberation, noting Chivu’s emotional celebration on the touchline.

In conclusion, Sacchi sees Inter as firm Scudetto favourites after this statement win.

Still, he insists that unless they eliminate their defensive lapses, those flaws could undermine their ambitions on bigger European nights.