Leaders Juventus host Sampdoria on Sunday, with victory enough to secure their ninth consecutive Serie A title.
Atalanta’s 1-1 draw with AC Milan offered Juve that clear opportunity but Inter leapfrogged them into second spot with their win, which included a Romelu Lukaku double.
Inter may end up runners-up with their best points tally since 2010-11, with the best defence in Serie A and second best attack.
Inter boss Antonio Conte said there was plenty to relish from the Nerazzurri’s campaign, even if he’d conceded the title to Juve.
“I don’t know because the glass has always been seen as half-empty in the recent period,” Conte said.
“The figures are clear though and comforting. These guys are doing some very good things.
“Of course, we can and must improve but I have to congratulate the lads for the good that they’re doing. We’ve got serious guys here who work hard and don’t give up.
“There are regrets about some games but unfortunately, there are years when you get less than what is deserved. I think that happened to us this year.”
Inter are also into the last 16 of the Europa League where they’ll play Getafe next month. They’re one of the clear favourites for the continental title.
“There are great teams in the Europa League,” he said. “Manchester United above all. We certainly want to do our best and I always tell the guys that we cant set limits on ourselves.
“At the same time, we need to be aware of our journey and the fact that we need to improve. Getafe are a gritty side and theyve made Barcelona and Real Madrid struggle.
“It wont be easy, and thats also because were going into the Europa League after a tough run.”
Inter will be without Alexis Sanchez, who scored their second goal against Genoa, for the Europa League with United refusing to extend his loan.