Marcus Thuram scored twice as Inter Milan eased to a 2-0 win over Ajax in the Champions League. The French striker found the net on either side of half-time, both times heading in from Hakan Calhanoglu’s corners.
Thuram has now scored five goals in four matches across all competitions this season. His sharp form gave last year’s finalists the perfect start to the group stage as they look to move on from the heavy defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the last final.
Inter made a change on the touchline after that loss, with Cristian Chivu replacing Simone Inzaghi. Even so, the new coach kept most of the old guard, starting eight players who featured in Munich four months ago. His decision paid off as the team produced a smooth and confident display.
Thuram was at the heart of everything. He threatened with an early shot that went wide and had a penalty ruled out after VAR spotted him foul Youri Baas before being pulled down himself. With Lautaro Martinez sidelined by a back problem, Thuram carried the attack on his own and delivered.
Ajax had one golden chance when 20-year-old winger Mika Godts found space in the box. But goalkeeper Yann Sommer reacted brilliantly to deny him. Just two minutes later, Thuram scored his first, shifting the game firmly in Inter’s favor.
Inter will now host Slavia Prague in their next Champions League game on September 30. On the same evening, Ajax will travel to France to take on Marseille.
