Inter Milan has tightened its grip on the Scudetto race following a dramatic Valentine’s Day weekend, leaving rivals in the dust as the 2025/26 Serie A season enters a critical phase. A last-gasp 3-2 victory over Juventus in the 255th Derby d’Italia has propelled the Nerazzurri eight points clear at the top of the table, fueled by a 90th-minute winner from Piotr Zielinski.
Inter Milan Extends Lead Amid Refereeing Controversy
The showdown at San Siro on Saturday, February 14, 2026, lived up to its billing as one of the most intense fixtures in Italian football. Despite a tenacious performance from Juventus, the match was overshadowed by a “refereeing scandal” involving the dismissal of defender Pierre Kalulu. Juventus directors expressed fury over the red card, which many analysts believe shifted the momentum in favor of Cristian Chivu’s side.
With this win, Inter Milan remains eight points ahead of second-placed AC Milan. The victory underscores Inter’s current dominance; local reports suggest the squad’s depth is so superior that only three Juventus players would currently break into the Inter starting XI.
Midweek Action: AC Milan Faces Como
In a rare scheduling quirk for Wednesday, February 18, 2026, AC Milan’s clash against Como is the only Serie A fixture on the slate. The Rossoneri are looking to capitalize on Inter’s distraction with upcoming Champions League commitments to close the gap at the summit. Meanwhile, Como enters the match desperate for points to bolster their own European aspirations after a recent 2-1 setback.
Transfer Market and Relegation Battle
Off the pitch, the transfer rumor mill is heating up. Manchester United is reportedly targeting Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, whose stock remains high despite his recent controversial red card. In the United States, the Chicago Fire is reportedly preparing an “all-in” bid to lure Robert Lewandowski to MLS.
At the bottom of the standings, the fight for survival intensified on Monday. Lecce secured a vital 2-0 victory over Cagliari, moving them clear of the immediate relegation zone. The win keeps Lecce in 17th place but provides much-needed breathing room as the season moves into its final third.
Key Serie A Standings (As of February 18, 2026)
- 1st: Inter Milan – 8 points clear
- 2nd: AC Milan – Chasing the leaders
- 17th: Lecce – Moving clear of the drop zone
Fans are also celebrating a nostalgic revival of the league’s global brand. Recent BBC coverage has invoked memories of the iconic 1990s “Gazzetta Football Italia” era, delighting supporters who are witnessing a resurgence in the technical quality and drama of the Italian top flight.