Inter become quite predictable when they have to do without two of their star players in Romelu Lukaku and Achraf Hakimi, at least according to their legendary former defender and captain Beppe Bergomi.
Antonio Conte had to do without the Belgian and Moroccan due to suspension for last night’s Coppa Italia semi-final first leg match at home to Juventus, and it was clear that Inter were not their usual selves without them.
The Nerazzurri took an early lead through Lautaro Martinez but would lose the match 2-1, despite having several other chances to score more goals on the night.
“Lukaku is essential for Inter,” Bergomi remarked while present in the studios of Italian broadcaster Sky Sport 24, following the match at San Siro.
“The Nerazzurri rely a lot on him and on Hakimi on the right wing, and without them they become quite predictable.
Bergomi then went on to discuss the two goals that Inter gift-wrapped for their arch rivals, with mistakes that were completely avoidable.
“Without those two gifts the Nerazzurri gave, the match could well have gone in a different direction,” he argued.
“The penalty? Ashley Young’s pull on Juan Cuadrado is clear so the penalty kick is right.
“As for Juventus’ second goal, I think Samir Handanovic should have stayed back to receive a pass from Alessandro Bastoni, who was ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo in intercepting the ball.
“The biggest culprit in this situation was the Inter captain.”
Bergomi, who spent the entirety of his career with Inter, then discussed what he think Conte needs to be doing in the next few weeks to ensure they have a good end to the season.
“Coaches are really worth their salt when they manage to revive players who maybe aren’t doing well.
“But with what Conte has available I think he’s doing well, although it’s true the Champions League elimination is a black mark where he could have done better.
“In moments of difficulty it is necessary to stay compact as a team, especially when there are difficulties at club level like there are for Inter at the moment.”