The autumnal chill and a light Milanese drizzle did little to dampen the spirits at San Siro as Inter Milan delivered a performance that was as breathtaking as it was emphatic. In a resounding 4-1 victory over Cremonese, the Nerazzurri not only secured their fifth consecutive win but also unveiled a new, thrilling chapter in their tactical narrative, largely orchestrated by a dazzling individual display from Ange Yoan Bonny.
A Star is Born: Bonny`s Spectacular Ascent
Stepping into the formidable boots of the absent Thuram, Ange Yoan Bonny, affectionately dubbed “BoLa” – a playful nod to his Portuguese namesake for “ball” – didn`t just play; he commanded. In his inaugural start, the young forward delivered a masterclass in attacking football, bagging a goal and providing three crucial assists. It was a performance that had all the hallmarks of a breakout, leaving San Siro buzzing and firmly establishing Bonny as a player of significant impact. While some new arrivals might take time to find their rhythm, Bonny seemed to interpret the San Siro pitch as his personal stage, delivering a solo act that perfectly complemented the ensemble.
Chivu`s Inter: A New Tide on the Horizon
Under the guidance of coach Chivu, Inter Milan is visibly charting a new course. Gone are the days of what some might refer to as the “Sea of Inzaghi” – a period characterized by a different, perhaps more patient, tactical approach. Chivu`s philosophy is one of relentless aggression, high pressing, and swift vertical play, a blueprint vividly illustrated by Inter`s clinical dismantling of Cremonese. This new tactical manifesto was evident from the opening whistle.
The game`s early minutes set the tone. Within thirty seconds, Frattesi nearly capitalized on a Dimarco cross, a clear signal of Inter`s intent. Just six minutes later, Chivu`s vision materialized perfectly: a defensive error by Sanabria, seized upon by Barella, who then delivered a pinpoint through-ball to Bonny. The ensuing tap-in by Lautaro Martinez, his fifth goal of the season, felt almost inevitable.
The Left Flank: Inter`s Unstoppable “Strong Side”
Inter`s attack often gravitated towards their left flank, a strategic choice that proved devastatingly effective. This “strong side,” as the club’s aficionados might now call it, drew parallels to tactical plays often seen in other sports, emphasizing coordinated movement and spatial occupation. The second goal exemplified this: Bastoni`s advanced positioning pulled defenders out, creating space for Dimarco to surge forward and deliver a perfect cross for Bonny’s powerful header. It was a textbook demonstration of Chivu`s emphasis on exploiting space.
The second half continued this relentless assault. Dimarco, fed by Bonny, unleashed a powerful left-footed strike from outside the box, leaving Cremonese goalkeeper Silvestri with little chance. Merely two minutes later, Barella further extended Inter`s lead, once again assisted by the industrious Bonny, following another incisive move down the left. Had it not been for Silvestri`s commendable efforts, the scoreline could have been even more daunting for the visitors.
Cremonese`s Brave, But Ultimately Futile, Stand
Cremonese, who arrived at San Siro with an enviable unbeaten record, found themselves overwhelmed by Inter`s intensity. Despite their previous resilience, coach Nicola`s side struggled to gain a foothold in the match, making numerous uncharacteristic errors. The visitors` solitary consolation arrived late in the game, an 87th-minute strike from former Nerazzurro Bonazzoli, assisted by Vandeputte. The goal, however, was preceded by a regrettable turnover from Diouf in his own half – a rare misstep in an otherwise dominant performance by Inter. This momentary lapse served as a reminder that even in triumph, there`s always room for refinement.
The Chivu Era: A Bold New Chapter
With this commanding victory, Inter Milan has not only moved to the top of the league (pending other results) but also sent a clear message to their rivals. The team is playing with a newfound verve and tactical sophistication. Chivu`s willingness to integrate fresh talent, with 22 players utilized over the last eight games, underscores a dynamic approach that promises an exciting season ahead. The “BoLa” has indeed set sail, and its journey appears both swift and captivating.
Wesley Dunham