Romelu Lukaku has now scored more goals for Inter than legendary striker Ronaldo Nazario has ever done – in 13 games less.
The Belgian striker scored the only goal of the game on Saturday afternoon in an Inter 1-0 victory over Bologna.
It brought Antonio Conte’s team closer to the Serie A title and brought Lukaku’s personal record for the Nerazzurri to 60 goals in 86 games.
This sees him move a goal ahead of Ronaldo, who scored 59 goals in 99 appearances.
Race to 6️⃣0️⃣ in Italy 🇮🇹
1) Romelu Lukaku – 60 Goals | 86 Appearances
2) Ronaldo Nazário – 59 Goals | 99 Appearances
3) Ronaldinho – 25 Goals | 95 Appearances⚽️🤖 pic.twitter.com/TwoNTI9HRm
— 433 (@433) April 5, 2021
Romelu Lukaku bundles home a great cross from Bastoni and Inter lead! 🔵⚫
A great save on Lukaku's initial effort, but he's tough to stop this season 🔥 pic.twitter.com/NQVMAWcfwL
— Premier Sports 📺 (@PremierSportsTV) April 3, 2021
Ronaldo was considered a generational talent and a formidable defender during his stay in Italy.
As an Inter player, Ronaldo won the UEFA Cup and the Ballon d’Or in 1997 while, unfortunately, suffered a couple of serious knee injuries.
He moved to Real Madrid in 2002 and that summer he won the World Cup with Brazil and finished the tournament as the leading scorer.
‘R9’ has never won Serie A with Inter and this is something Lukaku could do in the coming weeks.
Lukaku has managed to change his career since leaving Manchester United in 2019 and is likely in the shape of his life.
Still only 27, Lukaku will surpass Christian Vieri’s record of 122 goals in 190 games if he maintains this form.
He has six goals on former teammate and current contender Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who has scored 66 goals in 117 games in three seasons.
Inter are eight points clear of their bitter rivals from the Rossoneri and still have a game in hand.
Conte spoke after Saturday’s victory and admitted that a first title since 2010 could be close.
He paid for Daily Mail: “I think we created something wonderful between the players and the staff
“Everyone knows that I’m consistent, that I don’t treat people differently because of their name. I make choices for the benefit of Inter.
“This respect has now developed between us all, there is symbiosis, but we have to endure until the end.
“It would be lovely to end a season that is not easy for anyone by crowning it with a trophy.
“We came close last season with the Europa League final, but this time … we could get there.”