Romelu Lukaku's third goal in his last five games for Inter Milan launched him into an elite group of footballers with 50 goals in both Serie A and the Premier League, and yet the occasion did not feel like a time to rejoice.
Inter were on their way to 2-1 defeat at lowly Spezia, on Friday, sliding further from runaway leaders Napoli, and with success this season now resting heavily upon Tuesday's Champions League tie in Porto.
They lead 1-0 from the first leg thanks to Lukaku's late winner from the bench but his trio of recent goals, which include two penalties, does not disguise the fact it has been a difficult return to Italy, blighted by hamstring niggles and knee trouble.