Inter traveled to Bergamo to get back to winning ways but failed to do so after a performance that is hard to describe in any other way than ‘tired’. The team started out bad but made it into the game after 10 minutes. Inter was enjoying a good performance when an unlucky deflection from Murillo lead to an own goal. The rhythm of the game was very high and the match was very tough, something that would be seen in the sexond half.
A fine Icardi movement together with Jovetic led to a fine combination. The cross into the box for Ljajic was deflected into Atalanta’s net by Toloi and it was 1-1. One own goal per team and the game kept going like this until the end. Inter had difficulties in creating chances whilst Atalanta forced Handanovic into about four or five good saves. I remember writing that Handanovic was overrated and since then he has just lined up monstrous performances for Inter. Handanovic is proving me wrong and is a true key player at Inter. Today’s saves were the most impressive for a very long time and not only once, but three or four times with one save better than another, which was key in Inter getting a point today. It’s fun to read everyone who in a negative way says that Handanovic saved Inter or that Inter would be nothing without Handanovic. After all, Inter invested in Handanovic just for this and nothing else.
With Mancini’s coaching last game I was upset with the fact that Jovetic came on so late and that’s why I appreciated Mancini putting on about all striking forces Inter had so early. From the 70th minute Inter were playing as if the team was chasing a result in the 93rd minute of a CL-final. Unfortunately it didn’t pay off for Mancini but I’d rather risk winning three points and losing them, than losing without having went for the win.
I think that it’s clear that Inter is suffering from a physical drop. The performance of the defenders aren’t as solid as before and very many players look really tired. Brozovic and Medel looked tired and sloppy, Guarin as well(even thoguh he hasn’t played?), the strikers tried their best but had a hard time. Jovetic should’ve done more / better and Icardi was working very hard without getting anything done. Ljajic was probably the only individual player together with Handanovic and Miranda who looked fresh physically for the whole game. The team must’ve gone through a very tough preparation and I’d hope to see the results soon. A draw against Atalanta isn’t a catastrophe and seeing how Inter played today, one point was ok.
The only things I can blame Mancini for in this game could be not playing with Kondogbia and not giving Manaj the chance instead of Palacio. The midfield was a physical war zone were Kondogbia’s strength would’ve been needed. Palacio came on and didn’t really add much, it would’ve been interesting to see what Manaj could do. The good thing this week is that we face Napoli on Tuesday in the Coppa so there’s not really time to be frustrated. After all, I think it’s very clear now why Mancini wants Eder/Lavezzi. Inter needs goals and they need them quick. When Ljajic, Jovetic, Perisic and Icardi aren’t getting enough goals, hopefully an investment on the mercato can help Inter.
A midfielder and wing back would also be much appreciated, but until then, focus on the next game and as always, Forza Inter.
