The debate regarding Pierre Kalulu’s red card during Inter Milan’s 3-2 victory over Juventus in the Derby d’Italia remains contentious, with former Lazio goalkeeper Fernando Orsi adding his perspective to the discussion.
During the first half, Kalulu, already on a yellow card, encountered minimal contact with Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni.
In an exaggerated display, Bastoni fell to the ground and celebrated when the referee issued Kalulu his second yellow card.
This incident has sparked considerable criticism towards Bastoni.
Juventus 3-2 Inter – Orsi Critiques Media Response to Bastoni’s Reaction
MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 25: Alessandro Bastoni of Internazionale looks on during the warm-up before the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025, in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
On Sky Sport, via FCInterNews, Orsi condemned the act of simulation in football, but cautioned against vilifying Alessandro Bastoni.
“There needs to be consequences for players who simulate because it goes against the spirit of the game. That’s indisputable,” Orsi stated. “I expected something different from Bastoni—perhaps an acknowledgment that he went down on his own. That would have been a commendable gesture.”
Orsi supported refereeing chief Gianluca Rocchi’s recent denunciation of simulation, adding, “Rocchi is correct; it’s unsportsmanlike. Yes, the celebration was awkward, but we shouldn’t turn them into monsters.”
While the incident continues to ignite discussions about sportsmanship, Orsi aims to temper the discord by distinguishing between criticism of the behavior and personal attacks on the player.