Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni heads to Como braced for another hostile reception, with the Italy defender facing yet another away ground where opposition supporters will make their feelings known from the first touch of the ball.
According to Corriere dello Sport, via FCInter1908, Bastoni already experienced the Sinigaglia crowd’s fury during the Coppa Italia semi-final first leg, and tonight is unlikely to be any different.
Indeed, the outlet describe his situation as “an extraordinary period.” One that has made every away fixture a unique test of character.
Initially jeered for his involvement in Pierre Kalulu’s red card in the Derby d’Italia.
However, his woes have compounded lately after his red card in Italy’s World Cup play-off final defeat to Bosnia.
Como Vs Inter – Bastoni Must Block Out Noise As Inter Need Their Leaders
He will need to isolate himself again, blocking out both the transfer speculation and the hostile atmosphere that opposition fans will use to try to unsettle him.
Furthermore, tonight presents an additional challenge. With Lautaro Martinez absent through injury, Inter need their most experienced players to step up and fill the leadership void.
Therefore, Bastoni‘s role tonight extends beyond the purely defensive. His composure, authority and ability to perform under pressure will be central to Inter’s chances of taking three points.
However, Corriere are clear, if he can rise to the occasion again, as he has done before, the performance itself becomes the best possible answer to everything surrounding him.
The title run-in, and the trophies that could end his difficult spell, are within touching distance.