Lazio’s Coppa Italia final defeat to Inter has cost the club more than silverware, it has condemned them to a second consecutive season without European football, a situation that has not arisen at the Stadio Olimpico since 1992/93.
According to Calcio e Finanza, the last time Lazio went two or more successive seasons without continental competition was during a 15-year absence stretching from 1978/79 to 1992/93.
The current drought is also the first to occur during Claudio Lotito’s ownership of the club, which began in the summer of 2004.
The timing makes it all the more painful. Prior to the current run, Lazio had participated in European competition for eight consecutive seasons under Lotito, including two Champions League campaigns in which they reached the last 16 on both occasions before being eliminated by Bayern Munich.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 11: President Claudio Lotito in the tribune prior the Coppa Italia match at the Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 11, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – Getty Images)
Lazio make unwanted history with European absence
The club’s broader European history tells a story of genuine pedigree.
In the past 34 years, Lazio have competed in the Champions League eight times, reached the Europa League quarter-finals as recently as 2024/25, and won the Cup Winners’ Cup and UEFA Super Cup in 1999. Their best Champions League showing came in 1999/2000, when they reached the quarter-finals.
The summer ahead is consequently one of significant consequence for the club. The futures of Maurizio Sarri and several key players remain unresolved, while the fractured relationship between the squad and the club’s supporter groups adds further uncertainty to what promises to be a pivotal off-season.
Inter claimed a 2-0 victory over Lazio to win the Coppa Italia on Wednesday evening, and their victory managed to cause the tennis to be delayed at the nearby Italian Open. Here’s what happened.
How Inter caused a delay at the Italian Open
An own-goal from Adam Marusic and a first-half strike from captain Lautaro Martinez were enough for Inter to claim their second victory over Lazio within the space of a week in a game that won them the Coppa Italia and confirmed a domestic cup double following the recent confirmation of their 2025-26 Serie A title win.
The Coppa Italia final was played at the Stadio Olimpico in the capital. The Olimpico is housed on the Foro Italico site, which also hosts the Italian Open.
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 22: General view outside the stadium prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and Parma at Stadio Olimpico on December 22, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
At the same time as Wednesday night’s Coppa Italia final, there was also the men’s quarter-final match between Rafael Jodar and Luciano Darderi being played in the Stadio Centrale (centre court) at the Italian Open.
Shortly after the end of the first set between Jodar and Darderi, the Stadio Centrale became clouded in smoke from flares and other pyrotechnics being let off at the nearby Stadio Olimpico during the Lazio vs. Inter match.
This caused the tennis match to be delayed by several minutes due to the limited visibility and brief technical errors with the electronic scoring system.
The Inter players have all praised head coach Cristian Chivu and the team’s resilience after a tough end to the 2024-25 campaign following last night’s Coppa Italia final victory over Lazio, which has earned the Nerazzurri a domestic double for the first time since Jose Mourinho was in charge. Here is how the players reacted after full-time.
An Adam Marusic own-goal and a second from Lautaro Martinez before half-time handed Inter a 2-0 lead over Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday night, which was enough for the recently-crowned Scudetto-winners to hold onto. The Nerazzurri have now won 10 Coppa Italia titles: Only Juventus (with 15) have won more.
It has been an impressive turnaround under Chivu, who is still only in his first full season as a head coach.
At the end of Simone Inzaghi’s reign last season, Inter lost out on the Serie A title in the final round of the season, before being dismantled 5-0 by PSG in the Champions League final, and many had predicted that it would be difficult for the squad to bounce back on a psychological level.
In the end, the Nerazzurri squad proved their doubters wrong and this was a common theme among the post-match interviews at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday night.
Lautaro, Thuram, Zielinski and more react to Inter’s Scudetto/Coppa Italia double
Captain Lautaro Martinez said: “It means a lot, because it was not easy after what happened last season, to get back on track, but we managed a truly remarkable season. We showed good results, performances, intensity, so I am proud that we are finishing with another trophy that means so much.
“There is always so much talk about Inter, but you have to look at what we’ve achieved over so many years. We have to keep just sticking to our path, this is another trophy.
“We’d give Chivu a 10 out of 10, because he helped us so much.”
His strike partner Marcus Thuram added: “I’m very happy, I’m proud of the team and of our season.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates his side’s first goal, an own goal by Adam Marusic of Lazio (not pictured), during the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
“From the beginning, when I arrived at Inter, I knew that this is a special group and we have to show that on the pitch. I’ve always had faith in this group.”
Summer signing Luis Henrique said: “I didn’t expect to win one (trophy), let alone two! I’m very happy, congratulations to the whole group. We deserve this victory because we’re a very strong team.
“When I first arrived, I understood that it’s a very strong team and that we could still raise the level.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Luis Henrique of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates his team’s first goal which was an own goal scored by Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus np during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“The coach has given me confidence and I expect to have an even better season next year.”
Centre-back Yann Bisseck said: “It’s a great feeling, it’s been a long journey. We worked a lot after last season and it wasn’t easy, but the team showed a great reaction and the two trophies are well deserved.
“I’ve always had a lot of confidence in myself, but for a player, it’s more important to have confidence from the coach. With him, I know that even if I make a mistake, I will still play in the next game. That’s given me a lot. I congratulate him because it wasn’t an easy job after last year. Now we’re very happy with these two trophies.”
Piotr Zielinski added: “Everyone who knows me doesn’t think that I’ve been a ‘revelation’ this year, I’m happy to have been able to prove my true worth. I’ve been doing fine and I’m very happy with what we’ve done. Winning the double is amazing, I thank these guys because we couldn’t have done it without them. It’s a fantastic, united group, we hope to win more together.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Piotr Zielinski of FC Internazionale Milano is challenged by Mattia Zaccagni of Lazio during the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
“The coach and his staff, the medical team us players who give everything on the pitch, without forgetting our fans who have followed us all the way and pushed us on, are all amazing people. This is a victory for the whole of Inter.”
And Petar Sucic concluded: “I’m lucky to play for this amazing club. I can play everywhere to help the team, and in the end, the most important thing is to win the game. It doesn’t matter where I play, I don’t have a favourite position.
“I don’t think it’s only Chivu. He’s had the biggest impact, but it was also with the players. We started the new season. The coach helps us a lot. We came from a difficult season, but when the new campaign started, there were new trophies at stake. We won two, and next season we’ll aim for more. You can talk about private life with him; he’s a good person.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: FC Internazionale players celebrate after winning the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
”As I said, I’m happy we won two trophies, and I want to make a big jump in the future. I’m so happy in Milan, everyone knows. There will be changes, but the situation is similar.
Inter claimed the double after beating Lazio 2-0 in Wednesday’s Coppa Italia final in a game that earned both sides several million in prize money. Here is a breakdown of the funds both sides received for taking part in the final.
How much did Inter and Lazio receive from 2026 Coppa Italia final?
An Adam Marusic own-goal and a strike from Lautaro Martinez handed Inter their 10th Coppa Italia trophy at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday evening, which means that head coach Cristian Chivu joins an exclusive list of head coaches who have won the double in their first full season in management.
Curiously, Wednesday’s final set both positive and negative viewing records. The Lazio vs. Inter final set a new record for the highest matchday takings for a Coppa Italia final with gate receipts of €5,636,918.50 according to reports from Calcio e Finanza. There was less of an appetite for the final among supporters at home, though, as this was the least viewed final since the final became a single-legged match in 2008.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano lifts the Coppa Italia trophy alongside team mates after the team’s victory in the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
In terms of prize money, Inter have earned a total of €7.1m from their 2025-26 Coppa Italia campaign. They received a bonus of €4.4m for winning Wednesday’s final, on top of the €1.5m they earned for reaching the semi-final, the €800,000 that came their way for reaching the quarter-finals and the €400,000 they earned from taking part in the round of 16.
Lazio, meanwhile, earned a total of €4.6m from the cup this season. They earned €1.9m as the losing finalists, and like Inter, earned €1.5m for qualifying for the semi-finals, €800,000 for reaching the quarter-finals and €400,000 for the round of 16.
Both sides will also receive a share of the TV revenues from Wednesday’s final, but the exact amount has not yet been confirmed and is unlikely to be formalised before the end of the 2025-26 season.
Inter President Beppe Marotta insists they are focused on ‘evolution and not revolution,’ creating this Double-winning season by building on existing foundations and doing the same in future.
The Nerazzurri will have two trophies to show off in the open-top bus parade on Sunday evening, as after securing the Scudetto, they also beat Lazio 2-0 to win the Coppa Italia for the 10th time in their history.
Only Juventus have won more editions of this tournament, but above all it is their first Double since Jose Mourinho made it a Treble with the Champions League too in 2010.
It was frankly unexpected for a side that ended last season empty-handed, with the departure of coach Simone Inzaghi, hiring Cristian Chivu who had just a couple of months in Serie A at Parma on his senior management CV.
Marotta sees steady Inter progress
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after the team’s victory in the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
“There is a team on the field and one off it too, made up of the management and all those who work behind the scenes for the club, so I want to thank all of them tonight. It really is a team sport and everyone gave their contribution,” Marotta told Sport Mediaset.
“We are happy, there have been a series of positive results in recent years, and it starts from the top with the club owners. This is the model that can take us towards victory, sometimes we lose too, and last year did leave a mark, but Chivu did well to get us back on track.
“There are some small regrets over the Champions League this term, but you also have to give credit to the opponents.”
That only blip was the elimination from the Champions League play-offs to Bodo/Glimt in February, but it allowed Inter to focus all their attention on Serie A.
Inter are already looking forward to the future with a series of transfers believed to be on the horizon, but the idea is always to keep building on the foundations.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: FC Internazionale players celebrate after winning the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
“I am very optimistic, albeit respectful of our opponents. We believe in evolution and not revolution, so young players like Petar Sucic require time to get settled and develop,” concluded Marotta.
“We will continue to identify talented young players who we can help to grow, combining them with experienced figures who have the winning mentality already ingrained.
“There’s no need to change all that much. Unfortunately, some players are coming to the end of their contracts, and this is a physiological issue, we cannot fight time. We are ready to again gradually introduce young players, there is no need for a revolution.”
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates his side’s first goal, an own goal by Adam Marusic of Lazio (not pictured), during the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Among the players coming to the end of their contracts with Inter are Francesco Acerbi, Stefan de Vrij, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Yann Sommer and Matteo Darmian.
It was an uphill struggle after two big early errors, when Adam Marusic nodded a Federico Dimarco corner into his own net, then Nuno Tavares was caught napping by Denzel Dumfries to set up the Lautaro Martinez tap-in.
The coach was only able to watch from the stands due to a touchline ban, as his assistant Marco Ianni was on the bench.
Sarri frustrated at Lazio errors
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Denzel Dumfries of FC Internazionale Milano is challenged by Nuno Tavares of Lazio during the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
“We had prepared the match by lowering the press in the first half, because we noticed on Saturday that Inter were less aggressive in the second half, it was not a level they could sustain for 90 minutes,” Sarri told Sport Mediaset.
“Unfortunately, during an otherwise very organised first half, we gifted Inter both goals and made everything more difficult for ourselves. We tried to get it back on track, we had chances with Noslin and Dia, but were unable to convert them.
“We were well aware that Inter were stronger than us on a technical level, but we had hoped the game would take a different path tonight.”
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: SS Lazio seond coach Marco Ianni during the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Patric was being used in midfield again to fill in for the not fully fit Nicolò Rovella, but having the Italian come on at half-time did improve matters.
“Thinking about the game in the long run, we couldn’t start Rovella because he was out for most of the season and has only been training regularly for 10 days. I had hoped in all honesty the Final would last 120 minutes rather than 90, but then Patric had a calf issue, so we decided to change at half-time,” revealed Sarri.
This Coppa Italia Final was the last chance for Lazio to qualify for the Europa League, having struggled in Serie A to stay in the top 10.
It means that because Inter are already in the Champions League, fifth and sixth in Serie A will enter the Europa League, with seventh place valid for the Conference League.
ROME, ITALY – APRIL 27: Maurizio Sarri, Head Coach of Lazio, looks on during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on April 27, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Does this affect Sarri’s future at Lazio?
“I have zero interest about my future at this moment. Besides which, if it is in discussion, it is on both sides,” replied the coach.
His implication was that it’s not Lazio who might want to move on from him, but the other way around.
“I am sad for the lads, because they looked troubled in the dressing room. I’m sorry for the fans, who returned here in numbers, but we had a great journey to get here, we were up against a very strong opponent who won deservedly, with a little help from us too.
“My team was not timid, we simply chose not to press them too high, because their goalkeeper’s passes kept catching us out. If you concede an own goal on a corner and gift another on the edge of your area, there’s not a lot about tactics there. We chose not to attack them from the start.”
The one positive from this evening was that it saw the Lazio fans back in the stands of the Stadio Olimpico, having suspended their months-long boycott of home games, which is squarely aimed at President Claudio Lotito rather than the players or coach.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: SS Lazio team line up prior to the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
The next match for Lazio is the Derby della Capitale against Roma, although it remains to be seen when that will be scheduled on Sunday at 12.00 local time or Monday evening amid a row between the Lega Serie A and local authorities.
“My feeling is that I’ll come on Monday, but if they want to play the derby at midday on a Sunday, I’m not coming. They can do it themselves,” replied Sarri.
“This is a series of errors made by the Lega Serie A, they organised the Turin Derby around the ATP tennis finals in Turin, then the Rome Derby when the Italian Open is on in Rome.
“These were their mistakes and I agree with the local authorities, so I hope we play on Monday. If I was President of Lazio, I wouldn’t even show up with the squad on Sunday. It makes no difference to us either way, we’ll lose points penalties, I wouldn’t go.
“They make a series of incredible errors, nobody holds their hands up and says sorry we made a mistake. I doubt I’d keep a job if I made three or four mistakes per day. They can’t pretend this is normal, there are five teams playing games that are worth €90m for their futures, you can’t make them play at midday. This is not football.”
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: General view inside the stadium prior to the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
The five Serie A matches have to be played simultaneously to ensure fairness in the race for a Champions League spot, but the Rome Derby was scheduled for the same afternoon as the Italian Open men’s singles tennis tournament final.
Both those venues are in the same complex, the Foro Italico, so would involve thousands of fans in the same area.
Lautaro Martinez insists ‘it wasn’t easy’ for Inter to win the Double of Serie A and Coppa Italia after last season, while Denzel Dumfries jokes his captain was ‘angry with me.’
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Players of FC Internazionale Milano celebrate after the team’s victory in the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
The Final was decided in the first half at the Stadio Olimpico, when Lazio defender Adam Marusic accidentally nodded a Federico Dimarco corner into his own net, and when Denzel Dumfries robbed Nuno Tavares to set up the Lautaro Martinez tap-in.
This was the 10th Coppa Italia triumph of Inter’s history, but also the first time they’ve done the Double with Serie A since Jose Mourinho’s Treble in 2010, which included the Champions League.
Lautaro Martinez and Dumfries celebrate Inter success
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano lifts the Coppa Italia trophy alongside team mates after the team’s victory in the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
“It means a lot, because it was not easy after what happened last season, to get back on track, but we managed a truly remarkable season. We showed good results, performances, intensity, so I am proud that we are finishing with another trophy that means so much,” Lautaro Martinez told Sport Mediaset.
“There is always so much talk about Inter, but you have to look at what we’ve achieved over so many years. We have to keep just sticking to our path, this is another trophy.”
It is a remarkable achievement for a side that ended last season empty-handed and distraught, with Simone Inzaghi walking away after the Champions League Final defeat.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale celebrates after winning the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Not that much was expected of Chivu, considering he only had a few months of experience as a senior coach at Parma before taking the job.
“We’d give Chivu a 10 out of 10, because he helped us so much,” added the captain.
Dumfries missed a lot of the season due to a serious ankle injury that required surgery, but he returned and provided the assist this evening for the Lautaro Martinez tap-in.
“I am happy, it was a difficult period, I am glad that I managed to get back and help my teammates. I’m glad I assisted Lauti, who was angry with me for not giving him as many assists this season,” joked Dumfries on Sport Mediaset.
The Dutchman was named MVP by the Lega Serie A in this evening’s Coppa Italia Final.
Watch Inter players lift the 2025-26 Coppa Italia trophy after beating Lazio 2-0 at the Stadio Olimpico on Tuesday.
Serie A giants Inter have won their 10th Coppa Italia, beating Lazio 2-0 at the Stadio Olimpico tonight.
Football Italia was among the accredited media.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after the team’s victory in the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Adam Marusic scored an own goal in the 14th minute, giving the Nerazzurri an early lead.
Before halftime, Lautaro Martinez extended their advantage with an easy finish after receiving a precise pass from Denzel Dumfries, who had won the ball from Nuno Tavares high up the pitch.
Inter already secured the 2025-26 Serie A title barely two weeks ago and have now completed a domestic double.
Next Sunday, they’ll host Verona at San Siro in Serie A and lift the Scudetto trophy in their last home game of the season.
Inter dominated the Coppa Italia Final against Lazio, beating the Biancocelesti 2-0 at the Stadio Olimpico: here are the player ratings from our reporter in Rome.
Best Lazio Player: Rovella 6.5 – Not fit to start the game, the Italian midfielder was introduced at the break to replace Patric, who had provided neither the quality (as expected) nor the defensive coverage. With Rovella on the pitch, the Biancocelesti played a few more balls in the opposition half, but the lack of quality up front prevented them from having real goal-scoring opportunities.
Lowest Lazio rating: Nuno Tavares 4.5 – A blatant mistake that practically killed off the game after just 35 minutes. The Portuguese left back lost possession near the box under pressure from Denzel Dumfries, who provided the assist for Lautaro Martinez.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Nuno Tavares of SS Lazio competes for the ball with Danzel Dumfrie of FC Internazionale during the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Lazio coach: Sarri (suspended) 6 – Lazio’s dream of winning a trophy and qualifying for Europe despite a tough campaign didn’t last long. Inter scored twice inside the opening 35 minutes. It was an expected outcome, to be fair. Sarri’s teams have always had outstanding quality and unpredictability up front, nothing that this Lazio side can offer. He couldn’t really do more than this.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale scores the team’s second goal during the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Best Inter players: Dumfries, Dimarco and Lautaro 7 – All involved in Inter’s goals. Dimarco’s pass is not officially an assist, as Inter’s opening goal will be credited to Marusic as an own goal. Dumfries, on the other hand, stole the ball from Nuno Tavares to set up Lautaro Martinez. The Argentine continued to inspire the Nerazzurri’s attack until he was subbed off in the 77th minute, showing quality and physical strength. A true leader.
Inter Coach: Chivu 7 – Two goals in the Final, two trophies for him this season. Nearly a perfect debut season.
Cristian Chivu insists Inter winning the Scudetto and Coppa Italia is ‘never to be taken for granted’ after beating Lazio 2-0 in the Final.
The Nerazzurri ended last season empty-handed and depressed, but Chivu took over from Simone Inzaghi and has steered them to the Double.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: FC Internazionale head coach Cristian Chivu reacts during the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Having already won the Serie A title earlier this month, they swept Lazio aside in the Coppa Italia Final this evening at the Stadio Olimpico.
This is the club’s 10th Coppa Italia victory, but the first time they matched it with the Scudetto since Jose Mourinho got the Treble along with the Champions League in 2010.
Chivu was at that time part of the squad and is now the coach.
Chivu dream first season at Inter
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, reacts during the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
“Inter won two trophies this season, we deserved them after a good campaign,” Chivu told Sport Mediaset.
“We are all happy for what we overcame in these years, happy for our fans, happy for the club that always showed us support.”
Inter will be able to show off two trophies during Sunday’s open-top bus parade through the streets of Milan, as they’ll receive the Serie A cup after their game against Verona and have the Coppa Italia too.
“We won the League and the Coppa Italia, it is never to be taken for granted, so we’re very happy.”
They had not won this particular competition since 2023 and have now won 10 editions, fewer only than Juventus on 15.
Inter have won the Coppa Italia and Scudetto, meaning that the teams in fifth and sixth in Serie A will qualify for the Europa League, and seventh enters the Conference League.
It allowed them to complete The Double, but also has a significant knock-on effect for several other teams.
Coppa Italia not worth Europa League spot
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Lazio fan before the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Whoever wins the Coppa Italia then qualifies for the Europa League in the following season, but Inter are already in the Champions League.
With that in mind, rather than fifth place in Serie A going to the Europa League and sixth the Conference League, the qualifying spots are expanded.
Now fifth and sixth both enter the Europa League, and seventh is valid for the Conference League.
Inter have done The Double, adding the Coppa Italia to the Scudetto this season by sweeping Lazio aside 2-0 in the Final with an Adam Marusic own goal and Lautaro Martinez.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: General view inside the stadium prior to the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
These teams had met here in Serie A only last week, the Nerazzurri running out 3-0 winners, but silverware was at stake and the Stadio Olimpico was technically neutral turf, yet the Aquile fans returned after suspending their boycott. While Inter could do The Double, Maurizio Sarri needed a victory to qualify for the Europa League.
Hakan Calhanoglu was out of action, but Marcus Thuram shrugged off a muscular issue to start. With Ivan Provedel injured, Danilo Cataldi and Nicolò Rovella not at 100 per cent, the Biancocelesti welcomed back Mattia Zaccagni and Nuno Tavares. Maurizio Sarri sat out a touchline ban, so assistant Marco Ianni was on the bench.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Adam Marusic of Lazio scores an own goal, the first goal for FC Internazionale Milano, during the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Lautaro Martinez nodded a Nicolò Barella cross just wide, and the opening goal came moments later in unusual circumstances. Thuram grazed the Federico Dimarco corner with his head, but it was Adam Marusic who nodded it into his own net.
A spectacular Denzel Dumfries volley was charged down on another Dimarco cross, but Dumfries then robbed Nuno Tavares near the penalty area and generously rolled across for Lautaro Martinez to tap in from a couple of yards.
Of course, Lautaro Martinez delivers on the big stage for Inter!
The Nerazzurri punish another Lazio mistake and are well on their way to Coppa Italia glory pic.twitter.com/eYPMKtKGs2
Piotr Zielinski’s daisy-cutter from distance forced a tricky low save out of Edoardo Motta, while Gustav Isaksen’s angled drive was deflected wide off Alessandro Bastoni.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale scores the team’s second goal during the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
After the restart, Toma Basic had penalty appeals rejected for running into Alessandro Bastoni, but the move continued and Tijjani Noslin drilled inches wide from the edge of the area.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Tijjani Noslin of SS Lazio competes for the ball with Yann Bisseck of FC Internazionale during the Coppa Italia final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Dimarco almost provided another sensational assist with his volleyed ball across the face of goal, but Luis Henrique couldn’t keep the finish on target.
An acrobatic Manuel Akanji interception prevented Boulaye Dia getting the tap-in at the near post, then moments later Dia sprung the offside trap on a Manuel Lazzari ball over the top, forcing Josep Martinez to rush off his line for a difficult save.
It should’ve been 3-0 late on, but Piotr Zielinski fired wide of an open goal after the Thuram assist was deflected into his path.
There was some tension in a scuffle between Pedro and Dimarco, while Josep Martinez smothered Dia’s header.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: Piotr Zielinski of FC Internazionale Milano is challenged by Mattia Zaccagni of Lazio during the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Inter win their 10th edition of the Coppa Italia, the first since 2023, and can show off two trophies in Sunday’s open-top bus parade.
The show began even before kick-off with both Lazio fans in Curva Nord and Inter’s in Curva Sud unveiling fantastic choreographies.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: SS Lazio fans during the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Lazio and Inter tifo for Coppa Italia Final explained
Lazio fans showcased a young man in a Lazio shirt riding an eagle, which is the club’s symbol.
The banner underneath read: “Come, Smile at us next door, firstborn of the sun.”
ROME, ITALY – MAY 13: FC Internazionale fans before the Coppa Italia Final match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 13, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The Inter one showed a Nerazzurri fan looking at the Coppa Italia symbol and a banner underneath: “We’ve been playing for our lives since 1969.”
The Olimpico looks absolutely SPECTACULAR for the Coppa Italia final!
Inter fans mocked the troubles of their rivals Milan ahead of the Coppa Italia Final with a banner for under-fire CEO Giorgio Furlani, as over 50,000 signed a petition to get him sacked.
The Coppa Italia Final between Lazio and Inter kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: FC Internazionale fans display a banner featuring Cristian Chivu during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
As Nerazzurri supporters arrived at the arena, they also had some thoughts for their bitter city rivals Milan, who lost the Final to Bologna here last season.
Tra cori, fumogeni e sfottò ai milanisti con lo striscione “Giorgio Furlani resta con noi” i tifosi dell’ #Inter hanno già acceso l’atmosfera prima della finale di #CoppaItalia
The number of signatures on that petition has today gone over 50,000, and it might be enough to prompt RedBird patron and club majority shareholder Gerry Cardinale into taking action.
Inter President Beppe Marotta is hoping to celebrate the Double and the club’s 10th Coppa Italia victory as they face Lazio in tonight’s Final. ‘The squad is motivated.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).
The winner of the 79th edition of the Coppa Italia will be decided after 90 minutes, or go through extra time and potentially even a penalty shoot-out.
While the Nerazzurri are trying to do The Double ahead of Sunday’s Scudetto parade through the streets of Milan, the Biancocelesti need a victory to qualify for the Europa League and salvage their season.
Marotta and Inter always ambitious
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates with his teammates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“When you play in a Final, it is always an exciting moment, where everyone feels their sacrifice pays off,” Marotta told Sport Mediaset.
“We believe in this competition, we hope to secure the 10th win that would metaphorically give us another star. That is what we hope, and the squad is motivated to the right degree.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Players and staff of FC Internazionale Milano unveil a flag to celebrate being confirmed as Serie A champions after the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It is the 16th Coppa Italia Final for Inter, who won nine times and lost six. Their most recent triumph was in 2023, but a 10th victory would in theory allow them to add a silver star to the jersey, just as 10 Serie A titles gives them a gold star in perpetuity.
Leaked Inter Home Kit 26/27 – FootyHeadlines
“The rules do not actually have plans for that, so it would be a metaphorical star, something that still sparkles,” said Marotta.
The last time Inter won the Coppa Italia and Scudetto together was under Jose Mourinho as part of the Treble with the Champions League in 2010.
“This squad has been working together for a while, it went through success and failure, but it all helped their mentality to grow. Motivation is important in football, these lads became grown men through the process and are able to take centre stage.
Inter President Giuseppe Marotta and Pope Leo (@inter)
“The Scudetto belongs to Cristian Chivu and the squad. The coach played a very important role in his first experience at a big club. He proved that he has quality and can improve even further.
“Beating the so-called provincial clubs is an important part of getting to the title,” concluded Marotta.
Hakan Calhanoglu is out injured, but sits on the Inter bench anyway to be close to his teammates, while Marcus Thuram has shaken off a muscular issue to start.
Lazio director Angelo Maria Fabbiani admits they are the underdogs against Inter in tonight’s Coppa Italia Final. ‘We didn’t even expect it, to be honest.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).
The winner of the 79th edition of the Coppa Italia will be decided after 90 minutes, or go through extra time and potentially even a penalty shoot-out.
This is an opportunity for Inter to do The Double after the Scudetto, but arguably it matters more for Lazio, who could salvage their season and above all qualify for the Europa League by lifting this trophy.
Lazio underdogs against Inter
ROME, ITALY – MAY 09: Petar Sucic of FC Internazionale celebrates a second goal with his team mates during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
“The journey towards this Final was remarkable, we probably didn’t even expect it, to be honest. Following the renewal and rejuvenation of the squad, we didn’t expect Motta would take us to the Final with one of the best goalkeeping performances of all time.
“We can dream about a huge surprise, if it doesn’t happen, we can still say we believed.”
Edoardo Motta saved four consecutive penalties in the shoot-out semi-final victory over Atalanta in Bergamo, having only made his Serie A debut a couple of months ago following Ivan Provedel’s injury.
BERGAMO, ITALY – APRIL 22: Edoardo Motta of Lazio celebrates after the team’s victory in the penalty shoot out in the Coppa Italia semifinal match between Atalanta BC and SS Lazio at New Balance Arena on April 22, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
These sides met at the Stadio Olimpico at the weekend in Serie A, with Inter running out 3-0 winners and Alessio Romagnoli sent off.
However, unlike their other home games for the last few months, this time the Lazio ultras will be present, having suspended their protest boycott.
“In football, the difference is not just made by money. Investment doesn’t guarantee victory, you need planning, long-term vision, and courage. We are showing all of that,” added Fabbiani.
“Everyone can have their opinions, but I believe we should be seeking out young Italians. Just look at Motta, we picked him up from Reggiana and he made a huge impact.”
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Maurizio Sarri head coach SS Lazio celebrates a victory after the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
The only previous Coppa Italia Final of Maurizio Sarri’s career was a defeat, when his Juventus lost to Napoli in 2020.
The Lazio coach is suspended following the chaotic semi-final with Atalanta, so his assistant Marco Ianni is on the touchline, but Fabbiani shrugged off suggestions his future is in doubt.
“I realise the fans want everything straight away, but sometimes that is not possible. We had Mandas and sent him to the Premier League, so we thought that sooner or later Motta would have his opportunity.”
Lazio are in their 11th Coppa Italia Final, having won seven times before, most recently in 2019, and lost three.
Inter start Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram together in the Coppa Italia Final, while Lazio bring back Mattia Zaccagni and Nuno Tavares to seek silverware and Europe.
The winner of the 79th edition of the Coppa Italia will be decided after 90 minutes, or go through extra time and potentially even a penalty shoot-out.
While Inter want to secure the Double after their Scudetto triumph, Lazio can take a trophy and at the same time guarantee Europa League qualification.
Tonight’s Coppa Italia final will be available to watch live on Premier Sports 1 and online through premiersports.com in the UK. Supporters in the USA are able to tune in via Paramount+.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 09: Alessio Romagnoli of SS Lazio leaves the pitch after receiving a red card during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
These teams met here only last week in Serie A, the Nerazzurri running out 3-0 winners, but technically it is neutral turf this evening.
Despite that, it’s the first time in months that Lazio ultras are in the stands to cheer on their squad, suspending the boycott of home games in protest at President Claudio Lotito.
ROME, ITALY – APRIL 13: SS Lazio fan before the Serie match between Lazio and Roma at Stadio Olimpico on April 13, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Inter are without injured Hakan Calhanoglu (who is on the bench just to be near his teammates) and had been afraid that Thuram would miss out too, but the striker has shaken off a muscular issue and is ready to partner Lautaro Martinez.
Francesco Pio Esposito is not at 100 per cent following a bruised back against Parma, while Josep Martinez is the first choice Coppa Italia goalkeeper.
Lazio’s entire campaign rests on this match, as they are struggling in Serie A just to secure a top 10 finish.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Nuno Tavares and Mattia Zaccagni were among those rested last week who return here, with Alessio Romagnoli who will be suspended for the upcoming Rome Derby.
Tijjani Noslin leads the attack, flanked by Zaccagni and Gustav Isaksen.
Danilo Cataldi and Nicolò Rovella are still not at 100 per cent after long injury lay-offs, while Ivan Provedel is in the stands.
The only previous Coppa Italia Final of Maurizio Sarri’s career was a defeat, when his Juventus lost to Napoli in 2020.
The Lazio coach is suspended following the chaotic semi-final with Atalanta, so his assistant Marco Ianni is on the touchline.
Inter bench: Sommer, Di Gennaro, De Vrij, Luis Henrique, Bonny, Acerbi, Frattesi, Diouf, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Carlos Augusto, Darmian, Cocchi, Mosconi, Esposito
A series of initiatives are organised around tonight’s Coppa Italia Final between Lazio and Inter, including sculptures, the national anthem, legendary players, fireworks, and a new award.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).
The winner of the 79th edition of the Coppa Italia will be decided after 90 minutes, or go through extra time and potentially even a penalty shoot-out.
BERGAMO, ITALY – APRIL 22: Alessio Romagnoli of SS Lazio celebrates a opening goal during the Coppa Italia semi-final match between Atalanta BC and SS Lazio at New Balance Arena on April 22, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
It was accompanied by many of the Serie A brand ambassadors who will also be present in the stadium, including Roberto Baggio, Demetrio Albertini, Alen Boksic, Leonardo Bonucci, Vincent Candela, Fabio Capello, Alessandro Del Piero, Ciro Ferrara, Marco Materazzi, Christian Panucci, Francesco Totti, Christian Vieri and Gianluca Zambrotta.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, celebrates with Hakan Calhanoglu after during the Coppa Italia Semi-Final match between FC Internazionale and Como at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fans who enter via the Tribuna Monte Mario will be greeted by a new work of art called ‘Together’ and made for the occasion by Lorenzo Quinn.
Before kick-off, players who participated in the Philadelphia Junior Cup will be on the pitch with a banner noting ‘Football is Friendship.’
The Italian national anthem will be sung by Nek with the two teams lined up on the pitch, while two crystal sculptures of the Lazio and Inter jerseys will sit either side of the trophy.
At the end of the game, for the first time, there will be a Frecciarossa Player of the Match award handed out, followed by the trophy ceremony and fireworks.
Lazio and Inter will do battle for the 2025-26 Coppa Italia title on Wednesday evening, but tonight’s cup final could also have implications on Serie A and qualification for next season’s UEFA competitions.
Lazio vs. Inter Coppa Italia final could have impact on European qualification
Lazio currently find themselves in ninth place in Serie A ahead of tonight’s cup final, against the recently-crowned Scudetto winners, Inter.
Whoever wins the Coppa Italia also earns a spot in next season’s Europa League as a result.
Inter, however, have already booked their spot in next season’s Champions League. If they were to win tonight’s Coppa Italia final, the Serie A top four would all qualify for next season’s Champions League, fifth and sixth place would qualify for the Europa League and seventh place for the Conference League.
However, if Lazio were to pull off an upset, they would claim one of the Europa League spots instead, which means that the Serie A top four would qualify for the Champions League, fifth place (plus Lazio) would qualify for the Europa League, and sixth place for the Conference League.
As things stand, the situation appears to impact Atalanta, currently seventh in Serie A, more than anybody.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 10: Davide Zappacosta of Atalanta celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 10, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
La Dea are almost guaranteed to finish the 2025-26 Serie A season in seventh place: They are unable to catch the sixth-placed Como, who are seven points above them with two games to go, and Bologna are now six points behind them heading into the final two league matches of the campaign.
If Inter were to win in the Coppa Italia final, Atalanta would almost certainly earn themselves a spot in next season’s Conference League, however, if Lazio win this evening, then Atalanta will definitely be denied a spot in Europe next season.
Given that there are only three points separating four sides from third down to sixth place in the Serie A table, Como, Roma, Milan and even Juventus will be keeping an eye on tonight’s final.
Ex-Inter and Italy defender Marco Materazzi has no doubts that his former side are the favourites heading into Wednesday evening’s Coppa Italia final against Lazio, and claims that ‘nobody would have bet €1’ on the Biancocelesti reaching the final at the beginning of the campaign.
Lazio and Inter will meet at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 BST on Wednesday evening to do battle for the 2025-26 Coppa Italia title. Maurizio Sarri’s side have beaten Milan, Bologna and Atalanta in order to qualify for tonight’s final, while Inter have overcome Venezia, Torino and Como in the earlier rounds of the competition.
Inter and Lazio are the joint-second and fourth-most successful sides in the competition’s history: The Nerazzurri will be hoping to make it 10 cup titles on Wednesday, the Biancocelesti will be hoping to make it eight.
Materazzi previews Lazio vs. Inter Coppa Italia final
Speaking in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Materazzi says that Saturday’s ‘preview’ in Serie A only solidifies the fact that Inter are the strong favourites heading into the Coppa Italia final.
“It’s given us several indications. I saw an Inter side that didn’t pull the plug. They had a goal, reached it and didn’t take their foot off the gas. It’s a team that is determined to conquer everything it can. It’s a club where few poor decisions are made.
“I bet many Inter fans that they wouldn’t have believed Cristian could achieve all this at the beginning of the season. I’ve always said one thing: ‘Don’t worry, he knows what he’s doing’.
Materazzi also named his standout player of the season so far: “I’m so happy and proud of Thuram’s journey. He’s been criticised a bit and his qualities have been doubted. I sent Marcus a lot of messages during that time, telling him not to give up and to remember how strong he is.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano looks on during the Coppa Italia Semi-Final match between FC Internazionale and Como at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“When the balance was restored, in the sense that he and Lautaro started playing together again, and I don’t want to blame Pio, who we can only thank for his contributions at the age of 20, we saw who the really important players are.”
There is no denying the fact that Inter look their strongest when they have both Thuram and Lautaro Martinez available.
“They missed Lautaro a lot and partly Marcus as well when he wasn’t playing in his best condition. But the moment he properly returned, towards the end of March, he scored important goals for the Scudetto. Maybe it was good for him to not read the criticism during his worst period. Inter would do well to keep hold of him.”
And on Lautaro himself, Materazzi added: “To someone who has scored 17 goals just in Serie A, I have to say thank you. It’s a shame that he got hurt during a difficult moment, which forced him to miss the second leg against Bodo/Glimt. If he had played that game, we’d be talking about a different story for Inter in the Champions League. As an Inter fan, I can only hope he leaves his mark on this final as well.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The strikers are not the only threat that Inter possess, though: “Let’s not forget Nicolo Barella. At a time when many thought he had gone past his peak, he remembered exactly who he is.
“He has always played a lot and has had to deal with Italy’s elimination from the World Cup on a psychological level. He has brought out his best attributes, scored important goals and put in big performances, sometimes with the captain’s armband. The real version of him is back, so I say watch out for Barella.”
And on Lazio, Materazzi said: “They have to be proud of the path they’ve taken in this year’s Coppa Italia. At the beginning of the season, nobody would have bet €1 on them reaching the final, but they’ve got an experienced coach. Now he will have to make the players understand that they can do it. Anything can happen in a one-off game.”
What would winning the Coppa Italia mean for Materazzi’s former teammate, Chivu?
“A nice double. Those who evaluated Cristian last summer didn’t just do it based on the 13 games he had in Serie A with Parma, but for everything he represents for the Nerazzurri.
“He’s always held himself accountable and has always shown his players that he believes in them. Nobody teaches you that. There’s something inside him, and that’s been there since his time at Ajax, when he was already captain of the club at the age of 20.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Materazzi still has one Coppa Italia final regret: The 2007 final, which was played over two legs and saw Roma win 7-4 on aggregate against Inter.
“The one we lost 6-2 in 2007 (was my biggest regret). We were probably drunk because we’d just won the Scudetto. I was suspended in the second leg. We could have overturned it, but that’s how it went.”
And Materazzi’s favourite Coppa Italia memory?
“Most of all, I care about the one in 2010. Not because it was part of the treble, but because it was a Coppa Italia campaign I always played in.
“At the beginning of the year, Mourinho called me and said: ‘I would like you to stay with us, but take your time to decide’. Two minutes later I called him back and said ‘I want to stay with you’. He told me that other players would come in and that I wouldn’t be a starter, and I was fine with that.
“Two days before the cup final, I was on the bench and Jose approached me to say: ‘But do you want to play in the final?’. He always gave me confidence and we won that Coppa Italia. For me, that trust was worth as much as winning the Champions League.”
PASADENA, CA – JULY 20: Jose Mourinho coach of Inter Milan talks with his team during practice at the Rose Bowl stadium on July 20, 2009 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
And, providing his final assessment ahead of Wednesday’s final, Materazzi said: “Inter will go onto the pitch and prove their case because they have that potential. I see Lazio starting a little hesitantly. Maybe they’ll be a little afraid but they might have some opportunities with which they could trip the Nerazzurri. But I imagine Inter will be strong physically and mentally. And they will have one single goal: To parade two cups in Milan on Sunday.”
Changes are afoot for both sides as Lazio and Inter prepare to do battle in the 2025-26 Coppa Italia final at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday evening.
Inter, the recently-crowned Serie A champions, will be hoping to make it a domestic double against an underdog Lazio side, currently sitting in ninth place in the Serie A table. By coincidence, the two teams met in the league on Saturday, ending 3-0 in favour of the Nerazzurri.
Maurizio Sarri admitted during his pre-match press conference that he wasn’t best pleased with the performance that his players put in over the weekend, and pre-match reports indicate that he is likely to make several personnel changes on Wednesday evening.
Sky Sport Italia suggests that Sarri could change all three of his starting midfielders, with Patric, Kenneth Taylor and Toma Basic hoping to return to the XI.
Mattia Zaccagni is also expected to be available again after his recent foot injury, and is likely to return to the front three along with Gustav Isaksen.
Cristian Chivu is also expected to re-introduce some of his key first-team stars for tonight’s final.
Manuel Akanji, Piotr Zielinski, Denzel Dumfries and Federico Dimarco were all rested over the weekend and are expected to start in the capital this time around.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu and Federico Dimarco celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There have been doubts surrounding Marcus Thuram in the build-up to the final after the Frenchman reported a muscular complaint on Monday, but he trained with the squad again on Tuesday and will be re-evaluated later today.
Kick-off this evening is set for 20.00 BST.
Lazio vs. Inter: Probable line-ups for Coppa Italia final
ROME, ITALY – MAY 09: FC Internazionale head coach Cristian Chivu looks on during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – APRIL 27: Maurizio Sarri, Head Coach of Lazio, looks on during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on April 27, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Tonight’s Coppa Italia final will be available to watch live on Premier Sports 1 and online through premiersports.com in the UK. Supporters in the USA are able to tune in via Paramount+.
Join us for all the pre-match build-up, in-game commentary and post-match reactions on the Football Italia Liveblog.
Cristian Chivu says that he wants his Inter players to go out and have fun during Wednesday night’s Coppa Italia final against Lazio, but insists that winning or losing will not affect what he thinks has been an excellent 2025-26 season for the Nerazzurri.
Chivu on Lazio vs. Inter Coppa Italia final: ‘Don’t be too obsessed, have fun’
Chivu is one game away from claiming a domestic double during his first full season as a head coach. The former Nerazzurri defender took on his first head coach role in senior football with Parma last February and has since led Inter to their 21st Scudetto after replacing Simone Inzaghi at the end of the 2024-25 campaign.
Encouragingly for the Nerazzurri, they have already had a ‘warm-up game’ against tomorrow’s cup final opponents, Lazio, and beat them 3-0 at the Stadio Olimpico in Serie A on Saturday.
During his pre-match press conference on Tuesday evening, Chivu attempted to play down the fact that his side have already passed the first audition against Lazio.
“They are two different games. There are dangers when you play close matches against the same team. You might think it’s easy to play again like we did on Saturday, but they might find some extra motivation.
“We have to be humble and have the right attitude, be aware of the fact that we deserved the Scudetto and that we have gone all the way in the Coppa Italia, which we want to honour in the best possible way. We’ll definitely be ready.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Chivu went on to address the current status of Marcus Thuram, who is a doubt heading into the final: “(He’s doing) better, he trained with us today. We’ll have another day to evaluate him tomorrow.”
Maurizio Sarri said in his pre-match press conference that his Lazio players will need to focus on their mental approach more than anything heading into tomorrow’s final, but Chivu has urged for calmness among his squad.
“Don’t be too obsessed, we’ve deserved everything so far and we have to have the same calmness that we’ve kept until now. Calm, with a smile on our faces, going onto the pitch with the desire to have fun, without losing the enthusiasm or humility.”
Sarri also said that winning the Coppa Italia trophy doesn’t mean too much to him on a personal level, and Chivu also feels that winning or losing tomorrow night will not change what has been an impressive season for the Nerazzurri.
“It doesn’t change a thing for me. I’m at a club that matches my ambitions, that wants to be competitive. From Lautaro’s first interview in America (in pre-season), I understood what he’s about, although I already had an understanding from previous conversations.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Lautaro Martinez of Inter celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 05, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“The strength of this group is its ability to understand and fight for what we stand for. We often forget that this team has made it to multiple European finals and when it hasn’t won the league, it usually comes second. The competitiveness has always been there and that’s what I want.”
And what does Chivu think he has brought to the table during his time with Inter thus far?
“Ambition. I know what it means to be at a team like Inter, the stories that surround it and the negative part that often comes out. I’ve tried to calm that down from a human point of view, and manage the frustration that comes at us from the outside. I’m dealing with a group of great people, real people who show pride and know how to stick together.”
Maurizio Sarri says that his players need to focus on their mental approach to Wednesday evening’s Coppa Italia final against Serie A champions Inter, who beat the Biancocelesti 3-0 in the league on Saturday: “If the mental attitude is the same as it was on Saturday, then tactics count for nothing.”
Sarri previews Lazio vs. Inter Coppa Italia final
Underdogs Lazio, ninth in Serie A, are preparing to take on recently-crowned Serie A champions Inter in Wednesday evening’s Coppa Italia final. Sarri’s side have defeated Milan, Bologna and Atalanta, the latter two on penalties, in order to qualify for tomorrow’s final, while the Nerazzurri have overcome Venezia, Torino and Como over the course of the season.
Given the respective league positions of the two Coppa Italia finalists, Inter were already the clear favourites, and that was only solidified when the Nerazzurri beat the Biancocelesti 3-0 in Serie A over the weekend.
Sarri, speaking in his pre-match press conference on Tuesday evening, admitted his side put in a ‘sh**’ performance on Saturday, and says that he has several doubts about his starting line-up as a result.
There are also doubts about the availability of Danilo Cataldi, who has only returned to training on the eve of the final.
“Cataldi did his first training session with us this morning, he’s doing a little better in terms of the injury,” Sarri told the media during his pre-match press conference. “Medical conditions are one thing, but physical availability is another. He hasn’t trained for the last month, he can’t do a long shift.
“I have eight or nine doubts after Saturday’s game. We did so badly that there is no need to look at individual performances. We conceded the game, a sh** performance and the same result.
ROME, ITALY – APRIL 27: SS Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on April 27, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
“There’s no particular work or training you can do in just a few days, we have to hope that what we saw on Saturday is just a mental thing. We hope to see a team with a different mental approach and therefore a completely different team.”
Despite his frustration at Saturday’s performance, Sarri says that he is proud of the resilience his team have shown over the course of the season, especially in the cup and in the absence of their protesting supporters at various stages of the season.
“I’m proud of the team’s attitude more than anything. They made a few mistakes but haven’t given up this season. The biggest motivation for tomorrow’s game is the team itself, they deserve to win this final after a great journey. The team crossed the desert with no water and that is a source of satisfaction.
“We look different compared to the start of the season and I think we’re a different team for the better. We can be poor as coaches and players, but not as people.”
ROME, ITALY – APRIL 27: Pedro of Lazio celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on April 27, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Sarri has lost two cup finals previously, once in Italy with Juventus in 2019, and once in the EFL Cup final with Chelsea in 2019 in a game that became infamous for a misunderstanding with goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who appeared to ‘refuse’ to come off towards the end of extra-time. Sarri says that the cup final defeat with Chelsea is the biggest sore-point of his career.
“I’ve already lost two national cup competitions on penalties, in England, even after seven penalties, and that’s the one I regret the most. In the 120 minutes, we deserved more against a team like Manchester City.”
Sarri claims that he isn’t too fussed about winning the Coppa Italia on a personal level, but says that he wants his team to win for themselves and for the club’s supporters.
“This is a trophy that belongs to the players and the supporters. It’s true that we’ve played in an empty stadium this season, but even for (the fans), it can’t have been easy not coming to the stadium. Personally, after a long career behind me, I think this trophy won’t change my life, but it would be nice for the players and for the fans.”
Sarri also admitted that it is difficult to find the right words to motivate his players on the eve of a cup final.
FLORENCE, ITALY – APRIL 13: Maurizio Sarri manager of SS Lazio looks on during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and SS Lazio at Artemio Franchi on April 13, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“After lunch today, I was preparing for tonight’s meeting and I was struggling to find the right words. It’s a very clear game to prepare for, any words are just rhetoric. That’s difficult for me and for the team.
“We need humility, courage, and to forget about Saturday’s game. Any words I say in a meeting tonight are almost unnecessary, I consider it a useless meeting. The guys already know what it takes. They have to believe in it, believe in it to the point of madness.”
Lazio will be hoping that Pedro is able to continue his impressive record of goals in cup finals, but his influence will have to come off the substitutes bench on this occasion.
“Pedro was bruised until this morning. He did part of today’s training and will make himself available. He’s usually a specialist in these sorts of games, he’s scored in 80% of the finals he’s played in and he gives everything. We hope he does it tomorrow as well, but he’s had bruising and he’s only ready for part of the game.”
And a word for Inter head coach Cristian Chivu, who is aiming for a domestic double in his first full season as a head coach: “He’s had good personality in his approach. Obviously they have a very strong team but I think they’ve made the most of it in the right way. Leading a strong team when they should be winning is important. Inter were clearly the strongest team this year.”
ROME, ITALY – MAY 09: FC Internazionale head coach Cristian Chivu looks on during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Sarri went on to make it clear that the mentality of his players is the most important thing to focus on ahead of tomorrow’s final.
“If the mental attitude is the same as it was on Saturday, then tactics count for nothing. If you defend with your eyes without challenging for the ball, there are no tactics to take into consideration. We’ve prepared differently, we will see if it will work or not, but it depends on the mental side of things.”
And lastly, on the absence of the fans in recent weeks, Sarri said: “Warming up recently has definitely been a bit depressing. From this point of view, it can definitely help the team. As I’ve always answered to this question, I don’t know how much it has cost us (financially) not having the fans, but it has definitely cost us points.”
Both Lazio and Inter are expected to recover key players for the upcoming Coppa Italia Final at the Stadio Olimpico, with Mattia Zaccagni and Marcus Thuram returning to group training.
Inter and Lazio are preparing for Wednesday’s Coppa Italia Final at the Stadio Olimpico, with both sides having recovered key players.
JUNE 16: The trophy at the Olympic stadium prior the Coppa Italia Final match between Juventus and SSC Napoli at Olimpico Stadium on June 16, 2020 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi/Getty Images)
Coppa Italia Final: Lazio vs. Inter – latest team news
As reported by SOS Fanta, both Lazio stars Mattia Zaccagni and Danilo Cataldi trained with the rest of the team on the eve of the game and could be included in the starting XI by coach Maurizio Sarri tomorrow.
Likewise, Marcus Thuram has returned to group training for Inter after sustaining a minor injury during a training session on Monday.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Both Zaccagni and Cataldi missed Lazio’s 3-0 home loss to Inter in their latest Serie A match on Saturday, while Thuram started against the Biancocelesti, providing one assist. The Frenchman was replaced during the break.
Sarri and Inter coach Cristian Chivu will provide the latest team news during pre-match press conferences from the Stadio Olimpico later today.
Christian Vieri has backed Inter Milan to win Wednesday’s Coppa Italia final against Lazio, insisting Cristian Chivu’s achievements this season are only the beginning, while warning that the Biancocelesti will be a completely different proposition to the side beaten 3-0 at the weekend.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of the Olimpico showpiece, the former striker, who spent one season at Lazio and six at Inter, was characteristically direct in his assessment of both clubs.
“Inter is by far the best team in Italy and obviously starts as favourite,” he said. “But watch out for Lazio, they have had a thousand problems this year, but one victory can redeem everything, and that puts you on the pitch with a knife between your teeth.”
ROME, ITALY – MAY 09: FC Internazionale head coach Cristian Chivu looks on during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on May 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Vieri backs Lautaro to become Inter all-time top scorer as Chivu praised for ‘detox’
On Chivu, Vieri was unequivocal. “He does not think, unlike many in Italy, that everything is always a drama,” he said.
“It was not a drama to lose those points at the start of the season, they were needed to find the right path. Chivu has shown he is excellent because he knew those tensions during the Club World Cup were just toxins to be removed in due course. The squad was always strong. I never doubted the coach, even without much experience, and now he is champion of Italy. And this is just the beginning.”
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – JANUARY 06: Former FC Internazionale player Christian Vieri looks on prior to the Italian Super Cup Final between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Kingdom Arena on January 06, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Vieri reserved particular praise for the squad’s collective mentality.
“The players tire themselves out, from Dimarco to Dumfries, to Calha, who will be missed in this final,” he said. “And then Zielinski, back to this level also because of a stroke of genius from the coach.”
On Lautaro Martinez, Vieri was bullish about his long-term legacy. “He could become the greatest scorer in Inter’s history,” he said. “He will overtake Altobelli and, why not, even Meazza, he needs around a hundred more goals but he will not stop here. When people ask me what makes him different, I always say the same thing: he scores goals. In every way. And he is a born winner.”
“No one can put themselves in his shoes and every choice he makes will deserve respect. He received treatment he did not deserve. For Inter he is strategic, but there are no irreplaceable players. Even Messi left Barcelona.”
On the Lazio side, Vieri singled out goalkeeper Edoardo Motta and Mattia Zaccagni as players to watch, and paid tribute to Maurizio Sarri’s work in difficult circumstances. “The fans’ protests are not aimed at the players,” he said.
“The players deserve to be applauded. Playing in front of five thousand people is demoralising. Sarri’s work has been undervalued, he has kept everything together with great dignity. But the return of the full crowd could be the key factor. I rule out that the players will approach this match with the same attitude as Saturday.”
The Supercoppa Italiana will not be in Saudi Arabia for 2026-27, confirmed Lega Serie A President Luigi De Siervo, with USA and Italy potential options.
The last edition had been played in Saudi Arabia and there was a contract option for the organisers to host next season too.
However, it seems they have decided against using that clause, so it will be played elsewhere.
Supercoppa Italiana up in the air
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 07: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli celebrates and shows the Supercoppa Italia to his supporters before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 07, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“There is a theory we could play in the United States, and another international idea, but also that of playing for a year in Italy.”
The Supercoppa Italiana should once again be in the Final Four format, meaning there are semi-finals between the winners of the Scudetto and Coppa Italia runners-up, and vice versa.
Whoever wins those two matches then go head-to-head for the trophy.
It tends to be played on neutral turf, so it would require suitable stadiums.
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – DECEMBER 19: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale prepares to take to the pitch during the Supercoppa Italiana semifinal match between Bologna FC 1909 and FC Internazionale at King Saud University Stadium on December 19, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)
There is another problem with this format, which is that Inter won the Scudetto and are also the Coppa Italia Finalists, so there has to be an extra team found from somewhere else.
Marco Guida has been chosen as the referee for this Wednesday’s Coppa Italia Final between Lazio and Inter, with Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni as the VAR.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday May 13 at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).
The winner will be decided after 90 minutes, extra time, or potentially even a penalty shoot-out.
Guida to officiate Coppa Italia Final
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 02: Mateo Retegui of Atalanta (obscured) appeals to Match Referee, Marco Guida during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Atalanta at Stadio Olimpico on December 02, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Luca Zufferli is going to be the fourth official on the touchline dealing with Maurizio Sarri and Cristian Chivu.
In the VAR booth are Mazzoleni and his assistant Aleandro Di Paolo.
PISA, ITALY – MARCH 2: General view of the VAR monitor inside the Arena Garibaldi stadium in Pisa during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Bologna FC 1909 at Arena Garibaldi on March 2, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Guida is 44 years old from Torre Annunziata, near Naples, and this will be the first Coppa Italia Final of his career.
He has officiated 29 official matches so far this season, awarding 11 penalties and three straight red cards.
His record with Inter is of 17 victories, 10 draws and six defeats, with five dismissals.
Lazio experienced 12 wins, eight draws and 12 losses with Guida, having eight players sent off.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 24: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and FK Bodo/Glimt at Stadio San Siro on February 24, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
More tests are required to see the extent of the injury, but there are strong doubts that the France international will be able to recover in time for Wednesday’s match.
Francesco Pio Esposito is back in the squad after a back problem, but Ange-Yoan Bonny is more likely to partner Lautaro Martinez upfront.
Calhanoglu is still not training with the rest of his teammates and should therefore watch from the stands, so Petar Sucic and Henrikh Mkhitaryan are pushing for a midfield spot with Piotr Zielinski.
Cristian Chivu explains why Inter must focus on today’s game with Lazio before the Coppa Italia Final, noting Lautaro Martinez ‘needs’ Marcus Thuram by his side.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).
The Nerazzurri clinched the Scudetto last week with three rounds to spare and are now gearing up for the potential Double, as they will face Lazio again in this stadium on Wednesday night for the Coppa Italia Final.
It could be the club’s first Double since Jose Mourinho won it as part of a Treble in 2010.
Chivu keeps Inter focused
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“This is a Serie A match, the Coppa Italia is a different tournament, so we need to honour this competition, continue sticking to our principles throughout the season and keep focus, because this is a real match,” Chivu told DAZN Italia.
“Even if we are already the Champions of Italy, we still need to honour the competition all the way.”
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, celebrates with Hakan Calhanoglu after during the Coppa Italia Semi-Final match between FC Internazionale and Como at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
With the Coppa Italia Final coming up, Inter can afford to rotate their squad, bringing in the likes of Davide Frattesi and Henrikh Mkhitaryan for rare starts.
Lautaro Martinez returns to the starting XI to get minutes in his legs after a recent muscular setback.
“Lautaro showed last week off the bench against Parma that he is doing well, we hope to get him an hour or so today to rediscover match fitness. Marcus starts because Lautaro needs his teammate right now and they work well together.”
The squad, coach Chivu and directors all met with Pope Leo in the Vatican this morning, so he could congratulate them on their Serie A title success.
Inter are wearing black armbands following the death of club legend Evaristo Beccalossi.
“We send our condolences to his family and the whole Inter family, his daughter Gaia has been working with us for many years. He represented Interismo, what it means to be part of this club, and we are sad to have lost someone so special,” said Chivu.
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