Inter have defeated Barcelona 1-0 at San Siro, after Inter’s best defensive and most passionate showing of the season thus far.
A goal right on the stroke of half time from Calhanoglu sent the home fans into party mode. A packed San Siro crowd showing unbelievable scenes of jubilation.
Inter now sitting in second place halfway through the group stages. Unfortunately 2 of the next 3 fixtures will be away from home so a long way to go.
Let’s look further into this match against Barcelona.
Man of the Match!
Definitely tough as there were many superb performances, but Dimarco was on another level. Dimarco was tasked with looking after Dembele, who we know is a very talented player.
There was not a step taken backwards, as the Italian international got the better of his opponent on several occasions. Many of Inter’s counterattacking raids were setup by Dimarco on that left hand side, as he found himself one on one with Sergi Roberto.
A couple of crosses pinged across the face of goal with Inter forwards unlucky not to latch onto them.
Finally Dimarco would have his assist after a perfect setup for Hakan. The Turkish international would make no mistake after a pinpoint shot into the bottom corner. Even with ter Stegen at full stretch, he stood no chance.
The thing that will please Dimarco is his consistent run of form as of late. With both Italy and Inter, Dimarco is improving as games go by and turning into an important asset for Inter. Especially after taking the position of Perisic, who we all know was a superstar.
Most pleasing?
The clean sheet and defensive stability that we saw. Plenty was thrown at Inter, and the ability to keep the opposition to zero must be applauded. Inzaghi finally seemed to have his tactics correct and it showed.
Skriniar taking the armband was a genius move as he stepped up and turned into the same Skriniar we saw last season. Someone who has been missing to start this campaign.
A special mention must be given to De Vrij. After being dropped for several weeks to the bench, De Vrij put on a masterclass in defense. He had the task of marking one of the best strikers in the last decade – Robert Lewandowski.
De Vrij passed with flying colours and neutralized Lewandowski in every facet. Barcelona stood no chance with their top striker being hounded out of the match. Fingers crossed De Vrij can back it up in a weeks time as it will be different on away turf.
I must also say that Bastoni looked good too. It’s like he threw his ego out of the window and just enjoyed playing football again. Many times his long balls almost put players in on goal, and that’s one his strengths.
There was one in particular where Barella was an inch offside, but on another day that will work and potentially could be a fantastic assist for Bastoni.
Last but not least, Onana. I’m loving seeing him in goal and he is improving as the games go on. Would love to see him be the permanent starter for the rest of the season!
Where to next?
Another tough fixture as we face Sassuolo away from home. Sassuolo are on equal points with Inter in 8th, so this is definitely one we need to win. Otherwise we can definitely say bye bye to the Scudetto.
Prediction: Inter 3-2
As always, Forza Inter!
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