On Tuesday, Juventus and Inter faced off in the Coppa Italia semi-finals. Given the history between the two clubs, it's no surprise that it was a tense game throughout.
The match ultimately finished as a one-all draw, meaning that both the Bianconeri and the Nerazzurri will have it all to play for in the second leg. Unfortunately, the game was also marred by unpleasant scenes as not only were three players sent off, but Inter striker Romelu Lukaku was the victim of foul racist abuse from some sections of the Juventus supporters.
Lukaku, who was one of the players sent off, has received support from Inter in the aftermath, but many critics pointed out that this seems to be happening way too often in Italy. Today, it was announced that Juventus will have part of their stadium closed for their next home game, which will see the Bianconeri face Napoli later this month.
While it is something, many feel that this is way too light a punishment and will not make any difference in trying to stamp out the ugly behavior that creates a dark side to the beautiful game.
In any case, it will be interesting to how Inter respond for their upcoming Coppa Italia tie, which now sees the Nerazzuri without Lukaku and first-choice shot-stopper Samir Handanovic after the duo were slapped with one match bans.
Meanwhile, both Inter and Juventus will be looking forward to their respective Serie A games this weekend, with the Nerazzurri facing Salernitana on the road on Friday, while La Vecchia Signora are in action against Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday.
