Inter thrash Monza to launch Serie A title defence

Inter Milan opened their Serie A title defence with a resounding 4-1 victory over promoted Monza at home on Saturday. The Italian champions dominated from the start, netting their first goal only six minutes in through Hakan Calhanoglu. Monza, back in Serie A after a season in the lower league, pulled one back in the 29th minute via Gustavo Varela.

Inter quickly regained the lead, with Piotr Zielinski scoring in the 48th minute. A further goal by Pio Esposito extended Inter's advantage to 3-1 eight minutes later. Yann Bisseck sealed the win with a goal in the 63rd minute, cementing Inter's status as clear favorites to retain the Scudetto. John Stones, one of three England internationals signed by Inter during the close season, made his league debut as a substitute.

Inter coach Cristian Chivu acknowledged that his team was "a bit rusty" in the first half but praised his team for regaining "calm and clarity" after the break. Elsewhere, Napoli secured a 2-0 win over Genoa to give new coach Massimiliano Allegri a winning start, while Como earned a 1-1 draw with Udinese, setting up a Champions League spot.

Cagliari defeated Parma 1-0, and Milan and Juventus, both looking to bounce back from disappointing seasons, face Torino and Frosinone respectively in their league opener.