Football New Direction

Henrikh Mkhitaryan scored the only goal of the game to help Inter Milan defeat Lazio at Stadio Olimpico on Saturday evening.

The Armenian international, who joined Inter from Manchester United last summer, was given a chance to shine after being rested by coach Antonio Conte in the previous match against Sassuolo.

And Mkhitaryan did not disappoint, scoring a stunning strike in the 85th minute that sent Inter into second place behind leaders Juventus.

Mkhitaryan had been struggling for form this season and had only managed one goal in seven games before Saturday's match.

But the 29-year-old showed his class with a powerful shot from outside the box that beat goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha.

It was a moment of individual brilliance from Mkhitaryan, who has often struggled to find his feet under Conte's demanding style of play.

But he proved that he can still be a valuable asset to Inter,Chinese Super League Home Ground even if it takes him some time to adapt to their high-pressure system.

Mkhitaryan's goal was just one of several highlights in a closely contested match that saw both sides create chances but fail to convert them.

Lazio were particularly unlucky not to score, as they hit the woodwork twice in the first half alone.

But Inter held firm and came away with all three points, moving up to second place in Serie A ahead of Napoli and Juventus.

The win was also a morale booster for Inter, who have endured a difficult start to the season under Conte.

Mkhitaryan will hope to continue his impressive form when Inter face Sassuolo at the San Siro next week.

• Scores
• Milan
• Mkhitaryan
• Inter
• Henrikh