Hussein Marhoon keeps on delivering editorials for SempreInter.com. Here is his latest: “Good start.”
Walter Mazzarri started the match with 3-5-1-1 formation with Samir Handanovič between the posts. Hugo Campagnaro, Andrea Ranocchia and Juan Jesus formed the three-men defensive line with Esteban Cambiasso anchoring the midfield just in front of them. Yuto Nagatomo and Jonathan Moreira played wide on the left and the right respectively while Fredy Guarín and Ricky Álvarez linked up midfield with attacking line where Rodrigo Palacio was deployed as a supporting striker just behind the center forward Mauro Icardi.
La Squadra Nerazzurra started the match hesitantly with some passes going astray and possession being given away unnecessarily but once the nerves settled the team gained ascendency and the outcome was never in doubt. Inter took the lead on 18th minute in the most unlikely manner thanks to a great header by Jonathan who met an inch perfect cross by Guarín from the right. The lead was doubled on the 30th minute when the match referee Mr. Massimiliano Irrati awarded penalty when Inter’s loaned Pecorini’s fouled Palacio who later found no problem in converting the resulting spot kick. By that time, the match was well beyond the provincial side as they had to see out the remainder of the match with ten-men due to Pecorini’s sending off for his foul on Palacio. The Second half saw two more goals for Inter, the third was scored on the 59th minute by Palacio who was fed with a lovely through ball by Guarín. Then Ranocchia completed the rout on the 63rd minute when he tapped in Jonathan’s deflected cross in a crowded penalty area.
Walter Mazzarri said after match: “I’m satisfied with the result, even though the match was affected by the sending off. I think we’re at 60%, but we can still grow on the individual level and as a team”, the gaffer then commented on Álvarez’s recent form: “He’s doing well, but he’s capable of doing more”, and he also expressed his satisfaction in having Mateo Kovačić back from injury: “I’m glad he’s back, even though he’s still not in top condition”. With only few days remaining until the real business starts, the Tuscan coach knows too well that there’s a lot of room for improvement and that some players still need to develop their game and give more. It’s good to see him convey that clearly.
This win in the Coppa Italia, regardless of whom the opponents were, was also crucial for the team and the fans alike simply because Inter haven’t won a game at home since beating Parma by the solitary goal back on 21st April. It was necessary to regain the winning habit a feel secure at home again. Another positive aspect that Inter should take advantage of after that morale boosting victory is the confidence, belief and no fearlessness shown by players like Jonathan and Álvarez who were usually out favor. They might not be the best around in their roles but reality imposes that such player have to be trusted and be given the chance to make add their contribution.
Last but not least, Inter have two more weeks to strengthen the squad in areas of need. Mazzarri hasn’t been too fussy so far (at least he’s not showing it) but time is really starting to run out. Traditionally, late transfer window additions struggle to make their mark for various reasons and in Inter’s case the reinforcements are fundamental in many positions especially in the midfield where the team still needs a quality holding midfielder who can backup or even takeover ‘Cuchu’ Cambiasso’s place and probably someone who can deputize for Kovačić who will surely have a big role to play this season.
The wait is nearly over and the countdown has begun to see Inter back in action in Serie A. Let’s hope the team will be able to make the great start that Interisti are so eager to see. Forza Inter!