Inter's title credentials took a hit at the Olimpico on Saturday, not because of the 2-2 draw with Roma, but because of how it happened. Cristian Chivu's side went two goals down inside the first half before Lautaro Martínez rescued a point with a second-half brace, continuing a pattern that has now defined four consecutive matches. The habit of conceding early and chasing games is a structural concern, and one Chivu must address before it costs Inter against opponents less forgiving than a Roma side that faded after a dominant opening period.

The result leaves Inter second in Serie A on 13 points from five games, level with Roma and Lazio, with the title race already tightly contested. Martínez's double was a reminder of his quality, but his availability is now uncertain. The Argentine will join up with Scaloni's national team for three friendlies and could return fatigued ahead of the home fixture against Parma on October 10.

Into that picture comes a growing injury list. Hakan Çalhanoğlu missed the Roma game and his return timeline remains unclear, forcing Zielinski into the regista role. Zaniolo, Solet, Piotrowski and McTominay are also sidelined. The squad depth Chivu can call on is being tested. Inter remain unbeaten and in contention, but the combination of defensive frailty in opening periods, key absences, and a captain potentially eased back from international duty means the next few weeks will demand more than late comebacks.