Poland Superstar Explains Decision To Let Turkey Megastar Take Penalty In Inter Milan 2-0 Genoa Win: “It Was Right”

Inter Milan star Piotr Zielinski commented on his decision to let Hakan Calhanoglu take a penalty in Saturday’s home win over Genoa.

Speaking to Sport Mediaset via FCInterNews, the Polish midfielder delivered his verdict on

Cristian Chivu oversaw a 14th win in the last 15 Serie A games last weekend as Inter eased past Genoa at San Siro.

Indeed, goals from Federico Dimarco and Hakan Calhanoglu on either side of halftime inspired the Nerazzurri to a 2-0 victory.

Furthermore, the 32-year-old playmaker scored off the bench, recording his eighth league goal of the season.

Hakan Calhanoglu has been Inter’s designated penalty taker for years.

More importantly, his conversion rate has been nothing short of outstanding.

Except for two misses against AC Milan and Napoli, the skilled midfielder has put away all other penalties.

Therefore, it’s unsurprising that Zielinski decided to let him take the spot kick.

Piotr Zielinski Explains His Decision to Allow Hakan Calhanoglu to Take Penalty in Inter Milan 2-0 Genoa Win

MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Hailed by a journalist for his kind gesture, Zielinski replied: “Of course. Hakan has a wonderful foot, he’s excellent from the spot.

“He had just come back, and it was only right to let him score. He had to take the ball. That’s also a positive gesture for the whole team.”

In the meantime, he also commented on Inter’s disappointing UEFA Champions League elimination at the hands of Bodo/Glimt.

Moreover, Zielinski confirmed that the Inter players discussed this heartbreaking exit among themselves after the second-leg loss at San Siro.

In addition, he thanked the Nerazzurri fans for their unconditional support.

“Without a doubt, our fans were fantastic,” the Pole added. “They’ve always backed us and given us a huge boost the other night as well.

“Obviously, there was disappointment, but luckily we played Genoa right away and delivered the right response.”