Inter vs Real Betis

Inter wrapped up their preseason with a tight 1-0 win over Real Betis at the Stadio San Nicola in Bari, needing a late moment of quality from a debutant to settle an otherwise cagey friendly. The first half came and went goalless, with Betis actually the sharper side in front of goal, but Inter grew into the game after the break and eventually found the breakthrough their pressure deserved. The winner came in the 81st minute: Federico Dimarco whipped in a free kick from the left, Benjamin Pavard nodded it back across goal, and new signing John Stones spun and volleyed home on his Inter debut. No red cards or penalties were shown, and while Betis pushed men forward in search of an equalizer, they never seriously threatened a reply. It's a confidence-boosting send-off for Inter ahead of their Serie A title defense against Monza on August 22, with Stones' early understanding alongside Manuel Akanji a particularly encouraging sign. Betis, despite a strong summer overall, showed some attacking rust they'll want to shake off before hosting Real Sociedad in their La Liga opener on August 21.