AFP, MILAN: Inter Milan captain Mauro Icardi said it was “just destiny” that his future team-mate Stefan de Vrij gave away a penalty Sunday that helped Inter seal a Champions League place at the expense of Lazio.

Dutch international defender De Vrij has confirmed he is leaving Lazio at the end of the season which finished on Sunday, with Inter reportedly set to announce his signing on a free transfer.

Sunday’s match in the Stadio Olimpico was a direct clash between two teams fighting for Champions League football next season.

Lazio, in fourth before the game, needed only a point against fifth-placed Inter to return to the Champions League for the first time in a decade.

But the hosts threw away a 2-1 lead with 15 minutes to go.

De Vrij fouled Icardi to concede a penalty converted by the striker on 78 minutes, with Matias Vecino heading in the winner three minutes later after Lazio Captain Senad Lulic was sent off for a second yellow card.