Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport crowned Piotr Zielinski as man of the match after Inter Milan beat Juventus 3-2 in the Derby d’Italia.
The Polish midfielder earned a standout 8/10 rating, via FCInterNews.
The Rome-based daily described him as “intelligent in every play” and decisive with his match-winning goal.
Although it noted he reacted slowly on Manuel Locatelli’s strike, Zielinski immediately made amends with the decisive finish that sealed a crucial victory in the Scudetto race.
Inter 3-2 Juventus – Not Just Zielinski, Esposito & Dimarco Impress
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)
Behind him, Francesco Pio Esposito and Federico Dimarco received 7/10 ratings.
Esposito rewarded coach Cristian Chivu’s bold substitution with a powerful header, while Dimarco provided the assist with another precise delivery.
At the other end of the scale, Alessandro Bastoni received the lowest mark among the Nerazzurri starters with a 5.
Booked early, he risked further trouble and played a role in the incident that led to Pierre Kalulu’s dismissal.
Chivu substituted him at halftime to avoid additional risks.
Goalkeeper Yann Sommer earned a 6.5 and was deemed blameless for Juventus’ goals.
Solid displays also came from Manuel Akanji and Marcus Thuram, while Nicolò Barella and Lautaro Martínez struggled to make a major impact despite Inter’s important victory.
