The summer of 2004 saw Inter choose a new coach, Roberto Mancini, coming from Lazio.[1][2] Inter started the season qualifying for the Champions League group phase,[3] but also collected many draws in the league.[4][5][6][7][8]
Inter, achieved better results in cups,[9][10] made a comeback (3–2) in a match against Sampdoria, scoring all three goals in the last six minutes.[11][12] The derby with Milan was lost 1–0, which broke a winning streak, in May 2004.[13] the rivals also knocked Inter out of the Champions League, tournament in which – during the previous two-legs – Mancini's squad had been beaten by reigning champions Porto.[14][15] Inter achieved a third-place finish in the league.[16] The win of the Coppa Italia final against Roma, 3–0 on aggregate, closed the season.[17][18][19]
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
Source: 2004–05 Serie A, RSSSF.com, Soccerway Rules for classification: 1) Points; 2) Head-to-head points; 3) Head-to-head goal difference; 4) Goal difference; 5) Goals scored; 6) Draw. (Note: Head-to-head record is used only after all the matches between the teams in question have been played).[21] Notes:
Note: The match was abandoned after 72 minutes when Milan goalkeeper Dida was struck by a firework from the stands. Milan were awarded a 3–0 win and advanced 5–0 on aggregate.
