Inter Milan 2-1 Sassuolo: Ex Serie A Referee Blasts Neroverdi Manager: 'No Penalty'

Originally posted on SempreInter.com | By Marko Vrakela | Last updated Sep 22, 2025 5:28 AM ET

Former Serie A referee Luca Marelli offered his verdict on a controversial incident in last night’s match between Inter Milan and Sassuolo.

Speaking to DAZN via FCInter1908, Marelli supported Livio Marinelli’s decision not to award a penalty to Sassuolo.

Inter Milan sneaked into the win column, beating the Serie A newcomers 2-1 at San Siro.

However, Cristian Chivu’s side had to navigate a late storm to return to winning ways.

Indeed, Walid Cheddira cut Inter’s lead in half after Federico Dimarco and Tarik Muharemovic’s own goal fired the Nerazzurri 2-0 up.

Furthermore, Sassuolo had fiercely protested against Marinelli’s decision to wave ‘play on’ after Nemanja Matic fell inside the box.

The Serbian veteran went to the ground after a challenge from Davide Frattesi.

However, there was not enough intensity in the duel as Marinelli let the play to continue.

Meanwhile, Fabio Grosso lashed out at the Serie A official after the game.

Moreover, Matic joined his manager in criticizing the referee’s call, arguing that he should have won the penalty.

Luca Marelli Blasts Fabio Grosso & Nemanja Matic After Inter Milan 2-1 Sassuolo Win

“Matic and Grosso complain about a hold by Frattesi in the box that could have led to a penalty,” Marelli said.

“Matic’s fall is delayed relative to the hold; the Sassuolo player tries to control himself and then lets himself drop after failing to maintain control.

“It was correct not to award a penalty. The hold occurred.

“However, it wasn’t strong or prolonged enough to warrant a spot-kick, as Matic continued the play and only marginally felt the hold,” explained the refereeing expert.

“The second case is a serious error by referee Marinelli. At the end of the match, it was an easy decision.

“He calls a foul on Dimarco, and the player behaves unsportingly.

“Dimarco knew the game was stopped and apologized.

“But it should have been a second yellow card, leading to a sending off,” he concluded.

This article first appeared on SempreInter.com and was syndicated with permission.

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