Inter fans show support for Alessandro Bastoni after Italy exit abuse | OneFootball

Inter Milan beat Roma 5-2 on Sunday night, a win marked by strong support for Alessandro Bastoni amid backlash over Italy's World Cup play-off exit.

According to L'Équipe, the defender was applauded as he was substituted before the hour, drawing a warm ovation from the San Siro crowd.

The backing came days after Italy’s elimination against Bosnia and Herzegovina, a tie that finished 1-1 after extra time before going to penalties. The 26-year-old had been sent off before half-time, leaving his side to play with 10 men through the second half and extra time.

He had already been booed in Serie A after a simulation that led to Juventus' Pierre Kalulu being dismissed on 14 February. The defender is now facing a wave of online abuse, and he has accepted responsibility, saying he was solely at fault for the exit.

For Inter, the gesture was significant, reflecting fans’ wish to protect a key pillar of their system. He could consider a move this summer, and the message was that confidence remains despite errors and criticism.

The run-in is decisive, with Inter top of Serie A by 9 points over AC Milan. Milan travel to Naples on Monday at 20:45.

Source: L'Équipe