The victory was a testament to the Nerazzurri's attacking fluency and solid defensive structure, completely overwhelming their Czech opponents in front of a capacity crowd.
Martinez Pounces on Error for Opener
Inter asserted their dominance from the first whistle, controlling possession and pinning Slavia Praha deep into their own half. Despite the constant pressure, the breakthrough arrived on the half-hour mark via a moment of quick thinking and a costly mistake.
Slavia Praha goalkeeper Jindřich Staněk attempted to play a pass out from the back, but his decision was instantly punished by the high press of Lautaro Martínez. The Argentine striker intercepted the poor pass inside the box and swiftly tapped the ball into an empty net in the 30th minute for a poacher's goal, setting the tone for the night.
Dumfries Doubles the Lead in Fluid Move
The opening goal only energized Inter, and they doubled their advantage just four minutes later. The second goal was a showcase of the team's swift transition and excellent link-up play.
French forward Marcus Thuram, who had been a constant threat, received the ball and powered his way to the byline.
Inter nearly added a third before the hour mark when Martínez set up Petar Sučić, whose effort beat the keeper but was heroically cleared off the line by Slavia defender Štěpán Chaloupek, denying Inter another goal.
Martinez Seals the Victory with a Brace
The home side continued to dictate terms in the second half, and their relentless attacking finally yielded the third goal in the 65th minute to seal the contest.
The move was a beautiful display of team football. Thuram again played a pivotal role, providing a sublime back-heel pass to release the overlapping Alessandro Bastoni.
The two goals for Martínez mean he has now netted three braces for Inter in the UEFA Champions League, joining club legends Adriano and Hernán Crespo.
Post-Match Reaction and Statistics
Slavia Praha coach Vasil Kusej admitted the gap in quality was significant, stating: "It was like a university lecture from Inter to us. They showed us where we need to improve our play. It was a different level for us."
Inter coach Cristian Chivu praised his team's focus: "The game was important and taken seriously. Our attitude was normal... The boys always try to have fun; you have to have the right passion, but without losing focus or your attitude."
The defensive performance was equally impressive, with Inter earning their second consecutive clean sheet in the competition, limiting Slavia Praha to minimal chances. This dominant 3-0 win serves as a major statement of intent as Inter aims to go deep into the Champions League once again this season.