By David Rodich
Inter returned from the week off to face Cagliari away on Sunday. With Zanetti and Samuel back from injury, the Nerazzurri were now down Cambiasso and Miltio, who both suffered thigh strains in Argentina’s match against Japan. Milito was never truly back from his previous injury, so the offensive line-up remained the same from the original re-shuffle that happened a few weeks ago – a move that has continued to provide for more exciting attacking with Eto’o in the middle and the young playmakers Biabiany and Coutinho on the wings.
The first half saw a lot of open back and forth play, and carried the feeling that Inter was perpetually one incisive pass away from scoring. This finally happened in the 39th minute when Eto’o cut back onto his left foot to fire an 18 yard shot cleanly to the right post, easily beating the keeper. This goal (his twelfth of the season) must have been especially satisfying as the match was halted early due to racist chants from Cagliari fans directed at the Cameroonian.
With a goal lead, Inter kept their two holding midfielders, Zanetti and Stankovic, back, and only attacked with four players in the second half. This strategy worked as they held Cagliari scoreless meaning the Nerazzurri defense have now let in only three goals in seven Serie A matches.
Inter hopes to continue this form on Wednesday against Tottenham in the Champions League.
