Former Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta has caused a huge debate in Italy after demanding that Alessandro Bastoni not be called up to the Italian national team again, following the controversial episode in the match between Inter and Juventus.
IInter triumphed 3-2 at San Siro, widening their lead at the top of Serie A.
The match was full of emotions: Andrea Cambiaso's own goal gave the black and blues the lead, but the black and white defender then equalized.
In the second half, Pio Esposito restored Inter's lead, while Manuel Locatelli equalised for Juventus. Piotr Zielinski scored the decisive goal in the 90th minute, sealing the victory for Cristian Chivu's team.
However, the moment that changed the course of the match was Pierre Kalulu's red card in the 42nd minute.
The Juventus defender was shown a second yellow card after Bastoni fell in the area, signaling that he had pulled his shirt.
Referee Federico La Penna penalized Kalulu, while VAR could not intervene in yellow card decisions.
The episode has sparked strong reactions in Italy, with many calling Baston's action a simulation.
The strongest reaction came from Enrico Letta, who wrote on social media: "Bastoni should not be called up to the national team."
Bastoni is a key player for Italy and a possible exclusion would be a major decision, especially at a time when the Azzurri have yet to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Italy will face Northern Ireland in the knockout stage and could then face Wales or Bosnia in the final round of qualifying. /Telegrafi/
