Why Inter’s match against Cremonese was suddenly stopped

Inter Milan’s Serie A match against Cremonese was briefly halted on Sunday after home goalkeeper Emil Audero was hit by a flare thrown from the away fans’ section.

The incident took place shortly after the restart of the second half. As play unfolded near the center circle, a flare entered the penalty area and struck Audero, prompting the referee to immediately stop play.

Audero fell to the ground in visible pain and shock as medical staff rushed and players from both teams gathered around him. The goalkeeper later appeared to indicate discomfort in his right leg and told medical staff that he was having difficulty hearing in his right ear.

After a few tense minutes, Audero was able to continue driving, although a cut was visible in his leg. Before play resumed, he turned to the traveling Inter fans and shook his head in frustration.

Inter players and head coach Cristian Chivu called on supporters to calm down. The stoppage lasted about three minutes before the match resumed.

Despite the disruption, Inter Milan remained calm and recorded a 2-0 win, cementing their grip at the top of Serie A.

Inter had taken the lead in the 16th minute when Lautaro Martinez curled in a header from Federico Dimarco’s corner.

The visitor doubled his lead just after the half hour thanks to a brilliant moment from Piotr Zielinski. The midfielder collected an infield pass from Luis Henrique about 30 yards from goal and unleashed a left-footed strike that flew into the top corner.

Cremonese threatened to respond after the lighting incident, but Yann Sommer denied Alessio Zerbin with a sharp save.

Martinez had two late chances to add to Inter’s score. He headed one chance over the bar and saw another attempt saved by Audero, who ended the evening with mixed feelings against his former club.

The win leaves Inter eight points clear at the top of Serie A as the title race begins to move in its favour.

Published on February 2, 2026