Inter Milan overcame a mini-slump with a dominant 5-2 victory over Roma at the San Siro, taking a commanding nine-point lead in the Serie A standings. The win was powered by the return of Lautaro Martinez, who scored twice after nearly two months out injured, and Marcus Thuram, who netted his first club goal since early February.

Hakan Calhanoglu struck a swerving long-range rocket just before half-time, while Nicolo Barella added a second league goal of the season, ensuring a comprehensive victory that further damaged Roma’s Champions League hopes.

Inter started fast, with Martinez scoring from a Thuram assist in the opening minute. Roma briefly equalized through Gianluca Mancini in the 40th minute, but Calhanoglu restored Inter’s lead with a ferocious strike just before the break.

The second half saw Martinez score again in the 52nd minute, followed moments later by Thuram, who headed in a perfect corner from Calhanoglu. Barella’s strike soon after made it 5-1, and Lorenzo Pellegrini scored a late consolation goal for Roma in the 70th minute.

Meanwhile, AC Milan travel to Napoli on Monday, while Como and Juventus face Udinese and Genoa respectively, in a bid to close the gap on Inter, who now appear firmly on course for their 21st Serie A title.