ROME: Ten-man Inter Milan’s virtual second string side battled to a 2-0 victory at Lazio in Rome’s Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday to qualify for the Italian Cup final.

Following last month’s goalless semifinal, first leg at the San Siro this was a surprisingly tight affair until young Portuguese midfielder Vitor Pele’s goal separated the teams. The champions and league leaders faced an anxious last few minutes after substitute Marco Materazzi was sent off for kicking out at Goran Pandez just a quarter of an hour after coming on.

But moments later Pele turned provider for Argentina forward Julio Cruz to seal the victory five minutes from time. Pele’s cross into the box caused confusion between Lazio goalkeeper Marco Ballotta and centre-back Siviglia, leaving the ball at Cruz’s feet for an easy tap in.

Inter captain Javier Zanetti, who was one of the few regular starters, along with Cruz, to be included in the first 11 said he now hoped this result could inspire the club to the title on Sunday against Siena.

Lazio coach Delio Rossi praised his young team in spite of the defeat but admitted his club had had a poor season. “We saw on the pitch what happened and this was a good example of our season,” he said.