Balotelli Sent Off as Inter Fall to Verona

Serie A Heavyweights Suffer Shock Defeat

Balotelli Dismissal Proves Costly for Inter

Inter Milan's Serie A title hopes suffered a major blow on Sunday as they were stunned 2-1 at home by relegation-threatened Hellas Verona. The match was marred by the sending-off of Inter striker Mario Balotelli, who received a straight red card for a reckless challenge in the second half.

Verona took the lead in the first half through a stunning strike from distance by Marco Faraoni. Inter equalized after the break through Lautaro Martinez, but their hopes of a comeback were dashed when Balotelli was dismissed for a high challenge on Verona defender Koray Gunter.

With Balotelli off the pitch, Inter struggled to create chances and Verona took full advantage. They grabbed the winner in the 78th minute when Kevin Lasagna fired home from close range. The defeat leaves Inter six points behind Serie A leaders Juventus, who have a game in hand.

Balotelli's sending-off was a major talking point after the match. The Italian striker has a history of disciplinary problems and his latest outburst could cost Inter dearly in the title race.

Inter coach Luciano Spalletti was left to rue his team's missed chances and Balotelli's dismissal.

"We had a lot of opportunities to score, but we didn't take them," Spalletti said. "And then Balotelli's red card changed the game. It was a stupid challenge and it cost us the match."

Inter will be hoping to bounce back from this defeat when they face Napoli in the Coppa Italia semi-final on Wednesday.