Mkhitaryan Revived Inter’s Game, but Milan Side Dropped Points Against Atalanta

nter Milan failed to hold on to their lead in a home match against Atalanta. The game at San Siro ended in a 1–1 draw, with a tense finish accompanied by strong protests from the home side.

Cristian Chivu’s team opened the scoring in the 26th minute. Forward Francesco Pio Esposito capitalized on one of the Nerazzurri attacks and put the Milan side ahead. Before halftime, the hosts had several chances to extend their lead but failed to convert them.

In the second half, Inter’s coaching staff brought Armenian midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan onto the pitch, replacing Petar Sucic right after the break. The experienced midfielder noticeably energized the team’s play and became one of the most active players in the center of the field.

However, the final outcome was not in favor of the Milan side. In the 82nd minute, Nikola Krstovic equalized after finishing an attack by the visitors. Inter players protested heavily, claiming that Suleimana had fouled Denzel Dumfries before the goal. Due to his emotional reaction, head coach Chivu was sent off.

In the closing minutes, Inter were close to winning. Davide Frattesi fell in the penalty area after contact with an opponent right in front of Marco Carnesecchi’s goal. However, referee Gianluca Manganiello did not award a penalty despite strong protests from the hosts. The final whistle confirmed the draw — 1–1.

A Strong Half from Mkhitaryan

Henrikh Mkhitaryan played the entire second half and was one of Inter’s most noticeable players.

Armenian Midfielder Statistics

• Minutes played — 45
• Chances created — 2
• Key passes — 2
• Accurate passes — 33/34 (97%)
• Long passes — 2/2
• Passes in opponent’s half — 21/22
• Fouls won — 1
• Possession lost — 4
• Tackles — 2
• Ball recoveries — 2
• Duels won — 3/5
• SofaScore rating — 7.5

Ratings from Italian Media

Italian media outlets generally rated the Armenian midfielder positively, highlighting his experience, creativity, and passing quality.

• SportMediaset — 6.5: Mkhitaryan set up Thuram with an excellent pass after a powerful run, but the striker failed to convert.

• Calciomercato — 6: Entered the game well and created several dangerous moments, including passes to Thuram and Dumfries.

• TuttoMercatoWeb — 6.5: Two “golden” assists for Thuram and Dumfries, but teammates failed to finish.

• FCInter1908 — 6: Controlled the ball better than Sucic after coming on.

• Leggo — 6: High tempo, dynamism, and clear decision-making.

• L’Interista — 6: Added experience and tactical intelligence to the team.

• Sport.Virgilio — 6: Worked actively across the pitch, strengthening the midfield.

After this draw, Inter still lead Serie A. However, if Milan defeat Lazio tomorrow, the gap will shrink to five points, which could set up a very tense finish to the championship.