Inter head into a decisive Coppa Italia semi-final against Como at San Siro after a 0-0 first leg, with Cristian Chivu calling it “all or nothing” as he chases the Double. Team selection shocks — Denzel Dumfries starting on the bench with Luis Henrique drafted in — sharpen the narrative: tactical tweaks tonight could determine who reaches the May 13 final.
Breaking: Inter vs Como — Semi-final showdown at San Siro
Cristian Chivu has framed tonight’s Coppa Italia semi-final as a binary test: win and advance, fail and watch the chance for silverware slip away. The tie resumes level after a goalless first leg, meaning San Siro will deliver a finalist — or extra time and penalties will.
Key facts
Tie status
The first leg finished 0-0, leaving everything to play for in Milan. If the score is level after 90 minutes, the match will progress to extra time and, if needed, a penalty shoot-out.
Stakes
A Coppa Italia win would keep Inter on course for the Double if they secure the Scudetto, and guarantee a spot in the May 13 final against either Atalanta or Lazio.
Team news and selection
Chivu’s choice to bench Denzel Dumfries is the headline. Dumfries’ absence from the starting XI hands Luis Henrique an opportunity on the flank and signals a tactical tweak from Inter’s coach. That selection suggests Chivu wants different dynamics — more width variety and possibly a more conservatively balanced backline to control Como’s transitions.
Tactical preview: how Inter can win
Inter retain the tools to dominate possession and force chances through midfield control and wing play. Expect the team to press higher early, aiming to unsettle Como and avoid a nervous final third. With Dumfries off the start, Inter will need greater cohesion between full-backs and wingers to stretch Como and create cut-back opportunities for their forwards.
Como’s strength lies in discipline and versatility. They have already shown they can frustrate top opposition and exploit moments on the counter. If Como sit compact and invite pressure, they’ll seek set-pieces and breakaways; Inter must be clinical and patient.
Como’s threat and what they must do
Como have proved they can adapt. Their defensive organisation and ability to switch between press and block make them dangerous in knockout football. To progress, Como must remain disciplined, pick moments to press, and force Inter into long spells without clear-cut chances.
What this selection gamble means
Benching a high-energy full-back like Dumfries is a calculated risk. It reduces some direct offensive thrust but can add defensive stability or creative variation, depending on how Luis Henrique is deployed. If it pays off, Chivu will be lauded for tactical bravery; if Inter struggle to break Como down, the decision will be scrutinised.
Possible scenarios and next steps
A win for Inter means a place in the final and a reinforced claim at the Double; a defeat or elimination would be a major setback in what has otherwise been a strong campaign. For Como, progression would be a historic scalp and a major boost to their season.
Verdict
This is a test of management as much as it is of players. Chivu’s willingness to change personnel signals intent and tactical nuance. Inter have the quality to assert themselves, but Como’s resilience makes Friday night’s contest anything but a foregone conclusion.
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Whoever navigates San Siro’s pressure better will take a decisive step toward the Coppa Italia final.
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