Inter thrash Monza to launch Serie A title defence

Inter Milan kicked off the defence of their Serie A title in emphatic fashion on Saturday, cruising to a 4-1 home victory over promoted Monza.

The Italian champions needed just six minutes to break the deadlock when Hakan Calhanoglu blasted in from distance.

Monza, back in the top flight after a season in Serie B, levelled through Gustavo Varela in the 29th minute.

Inter restored their advantage shortly after the restart, with Piotr Zielinski finding the net in the 48th minute.

Pio Esposito, preferred in the starting line-up to Marcus Thuram, made it 3-1 eight minutes later with an inventive backheel finish from Andy Diouf's cross.

Yann Bisseck completed the scoring in the 63rd minute as Inter underlined their status as clear favourites to retain the Scudetto.

John Stones, one of three England internationals signed by Inter during the close season, made his debut after coming on as a late substitute.

"We were a bit rusty during the first half, a bit too frantic as well," Inter coach Cristian Chivu told DAZN. "We regained our calm and clarity after the break."

Last season's surprise package Como needed a second-half equaliser from Greece forward Tasos Douvikas to earn a 1-1 draw at Udinese.

Como will play in the Champions League for the first time next month after finishing fourth under Cesc Fabregas.

Napoli, runners-up last term, visit Genoa later on Saturday under new coach Massimiliano Allegri, who is looking to make a statement after being dismissed by AC Milan following just one season in charge.

Milan and Juventus, both seeking redemption after disappointing campaigns and further summer overhauls, begin their league seasons on Sunday against Torino and Frosinone respectively.