FC Internazionale Milano's lead in Serie A was reduced to nine points on Sunday when the champions drew 1-1 at UC Sampdoria and second-placed AS Roma beat ACF Fiorentina 1-0.
Impressive Cassano
Hernán Crespo's 76th-minute diving header from Dejan Stanković's cross prevented a depleted Inter from suffering their first league defeat of the campaign after Antonio Cassano had enhanced his claims for an Italy recall by putting in-form Sampdoria ahead. Cassano was allowed to burst into the Inter box unchallenged before firing into the top corner on 65 minutes. Fresh from their midweek UEFA Champions League victory over Real Madrid CF – when Inter were losing at Liverpool FC – Roma triumphed again at the Olimpico against Fiorentina. The match was decided by a 54th-minute strike from Cicinho, who was sent off in added time.
European exertions
Roma coach Luciano Spalletti said: "It was a good game as both teams tried to attack and show their qualities. We could have scored a second goal at the end, but I have to admit that they could just as easily have equalised. I think the fans enjoyed the match and we're getting good results, but unfortunately for us Inter are almost flawless." Juventus are not, however, and sit four points behind Roma in third position after succumbing to a stoppage-time Nicola Amoruso penalty at second-from-bottom Reggina Calcio on Saturday.
source : www.uefa.com
