Inter Milan left Sardinia with all three points after a 1-0 victory over Cagliari on Matchday 2 of Serie A, but the scoreline hardly reflected their overwhelming dominance in possession and chance creation. The Nerazzurri peppered the Cagliari goal with 26 shots across the 90 minutes, yet only one found its way past the goalkeeper — a frustrating evening for Simone Inzaghi's side despite the positive result.

The standout performer on the night was Federico Dimarco, who operated as Inter's chief creator from the left flank with a remarkable seven key passes. Time and again, the wing-back carved open Cagliari's defensive lines with incisive deliveries and cutbacks, providing teammates with opportunities that, on another night, would have yielded a far more comfortable margin. His relentless output underlined why he has become one of Serie A's most productive defenders in recent seasons.

Alessandro Bastoni also merited high praise for his contribution going forward. The centre-back registered four key passes — an extraordinary number for a defender — as Inter's build-up play consistently flowed through the left side. Bastoni's progressive passing and willingness to step into advanced positions gave Cagliari constant problems, and his partnership with Dimarco down that channel was the tactical story of the match.

Cagliari, for their part, deserve credit for keeping the scoreline as tight as they did. Faced with wave after wave of Inter pressure, they stayed organized and resolute for long stretches. Their goalkeeper was called into action repeatedly, and last-ditch blocks from the backline ensured the visitors could not run away with the game. Yet their own attacking output was limited, as Inter's defensive structure held firm to secure a clean sheet.

The result means Inter open their campaign with a perfect six points from two matches, maintaining their status as serious title contenders. For Cagliari, there is no shame in a narrow defeat to last season's champions, but the inability to create much going forward will concern their coaching staff heading into the weeks ahead. Inter's wastefulness in front of goal — 26 shots for a single goal — is a minor concern, though Inzaghi will take the win and the clean sheet and move on with quiet satisfaction.