Speaking again this morning in the pages of La Gazzetta dello Sport, Andrea Stramaccioni analyzed some of the possible technical and tactical keys to Saturday night’s clash between Roma-Inter. The coach, in addition to highlighting some duels to keep an eye on, focused on how much Chivu’s team has improved and what it still lacks to become increasingly competitive. Here is an excerpt of his words:
CHIVU’S TOUCH – “The defensive line is higher. The midfielder in the area of the ball, Calha or one of the mezzalas, always gives the first signal to press and the team follows with courage. The mental defensive resilience needs to improve. At the start of the season it happened often, now I see more focus: if Inter goes back to locking down the goal, it has very few rivals.”
INTER’S SOLIDITY – “Akanji has made his contribution, yes, but Acerbi, Bastoni and Sommer have all raised the bar.”
ROMA-INTER – “The most intriguing matchup is Dimarco-Wesley, two players who always think about attacking first but in different ways: Dimarco with the quality of his left foot and enviable athletic condition. On the other side, the low center of gravity quality of Angelino against the physicality of Dumfries: when the Dutchman attacks the far post, it’s tough for everyone…”
WITHOUT THURAM – “Pio is growing game by game, gaining minutes, awareness and confidence. The splendid goal in Tallinn is proof of that, Bonny showed his value against Cremonese and I think he is favored to start at the Olimpico: his ability to roam can take away reference points from Roma’s defense. Pio would become an excellent weapon during the match. Alongside them, Lautaro is the usual guarantee: Argentina knows it too, as he climbs the ranks among the best strikers in Albiceleste history.”
