Bayer Leverkusen – Internazionale: Laterkusen Strikes A Inactive Inter (1-0)

Late finishes from Bayer Leverkusen are back in fashion, but maybe this was not as spectacular as some of their other last goals. Although they were able to connect through some short passing circuits, Leverkusen had been left frustrated with Internazionale who struggled to show attacking intentions.

Tactical analysis and match report by Joel Parker.

An Italian team in black and blue was bound to give Xabi Alonso some flashbacks, although he may wish for some recollection of what made Leverkusen immortal last season. 

Which begs the question, what exactly is the difference? Bayer kept the same squad and coach, yet are seven points off Bayern on top of the Bundesliga. Too many small, moving parts have made them look a lot more vulnerable: teams are finding success going long and direct against their defense, which has seen Leverkusen get into different game states than the ones they map out. In the Champions League, Liverpool handed them their first defeat, but finishing in the top eight is not a guarantee. 

Inter is another champion that has seen a drop off from last season’s heights. Simone Inzaghi’s team have started to look more susceptible in defensive transitions once again, but they are still very capable of turning the style on and their Champions League form, going into this game, spoke for itself. Four wins from . . .