Internazionale – Atalanta Bergamo: Tactics prevail as both sides find their fortunes in exploiting each other’s holes (1-1)

Antonio Conte’s setup for Inter was successful from the off and gave his side a perfect start. Later on Gian Piero Gasperini’s key second half changes helped pave the way for a dramatic U-turn following a frustrating first half.

Tactical analysis by Peter Munnelly.

Inter’s 3-1 away win in Naples was the perfect way to kick off 2020, and also the perfect way to keep up pace with perennial champions Juventus. With no less a test here, they looked to take an at least temporary three point lead over their main rivals against the top scorers in the league, well on their way to breaking records for the rate at which they have been doing so this campaign. 

Only two changes were made as Stefano Sensi was restored to the starting eleven in place of Matías Vecino in midfield, and in defense Milan Škriniar was sidelined through suspension as veteran Diego Godín filled in on the right of their back three. Up front, the hot-on-form partnership of Lautaro Martínez and Romelu Lukaku held its place as part of a 3-5-2 setup.

https://twitter.com/Inter_en/status/1216078761445220352

After a turbulent beginning to their season, Gasperini’s Atalanta have recovered by winning six of their last seven matches in all competitions, including wins which helped them perform a miracle comeback in their UEFA Champions League group to sneak through to the knockout . . .