Inter Edges Past Spezia

Inter played out a routine 2-1 win over Spezia to keep the pressure on AC Milan at the top of Serie A. I describe it as routine only because we won. Had we lost or drawn, Conte would have attracted a lot of criticism for the performance and it’s approach. It was another dour, turgid performance after the Napoli match in midweek.

Chances At A Premium

We only created three clearcut chances in the first half. Romelu Lukaku had a shot blocked, Lautaro Martinez missed a free header when unbalanced and Ashley Young’s brilliant dribble and run was saved by Ivan Provedel. Aside from that, our possession was careless, lacked initiative and urgency. At times, we played like a provincial team, like the minnows chasing our opponents for possession, trying to close them down and focused on blocking their passing chains. Lukaku and Martinez were feeding on scraps.

Second Half Change

The change came in the second half when Stefano Sensi was introduced in place of Roberto Gagliardini. He didn’t have a part to play in our opening goal but it was a great team goal with Achraf Hakimi the beneficiary. Sensi did play a part in the second goal as his cross was handled by M’Bala Nzola. Lukaku stepped up to score his customary goal from the penalty spot. He might have been scoring but his performances have not been as good or influential in recent weeks and the same can be said of Martinez.

Perfect Defensive Performance Blotted

Defensively, we were perfect. Spezia had 0 shots on target so the goal we conceded was irritating. It was their only shot on target and it blemished a perfect defensive performance. Samir Handanovic not to be blamed this time as the defenders didn’t deal with the cross in the box.

One More Game To Go In 2020

We find ourselves one point away from Milan with one more game to play in 2020. Our performances have been a lot more solid in recent weeks. The approach has been traditionally Italian as well with the emphasis on keeping it tight at the back and then nicking a goal on the counter-attack. At this point, getting the win and three points is all that matters as we chase down Milan and with Juventus and a few other contenders breathing down our necks. These wins are good for the mentality but the team’s performance has to improve.

We have a tough final game to come in midweek, away in Verona to Hellas Verona. They are a tricky team to face that plays with aggression and quality so we got to be on our toes against them. One more game and hopefully one more win before a much needed Christmas break.