Inter defeats Napoli in Serie A match marked by referee controversy

Inter overcame a two-goal deficit to defeat Napoli 3-2 at the San Siro on September 5, 2026. Matteo Politano gave the visitors the lead during a sequence involving an uncalled potential handball by Stanislav Lobotka against Nicolò Barella. Referee Simone Sozza faced criticism for the non-intervention of VAR during the first-half incident. Later in the match, Marcus Thuram equalized for Inter despite protests from Amir Rrahmani, who fell in the penalty area before the goal. Lautaro Martínez eventually secured the win for Inter with two goals in stoppage time. Referee expert Luca Marelli reviewed the footage post-match, noting that the handball incident remained inconclusive due to the available camera angles.

• 8:40 PMYahoo Sports — Marelli breaks down controversial decisions in Inter 3-2 Napoli
• 8:38 PMFootball Italia — Marelli breaks down controversial decisions in Inter 3-2 Napoli - Football Italia