Hunting for first place. In anticipation of the ninth day (20.45) Inter visit Palermo with a twofold objective: to regain victory and take the lead in the standings. Both have been missing since last September 27, when the Nerazzurri were defeated by Fiorentina. Since then, two very dignified draws (Sampdoria and Juventus) which however have made the purists of the technique turn up their noses.
A matter of play, aimed more at concreteness than at entertainment: it is no coincidence that Inter score (8) and suffer little (6) cancel each other out – Mancini's reply. – Now let's think about Palermo, it won't be an easy match at all”. On paper, however, victory is the only possible outcome. In fact, after a defeat and two draws it's time to go back to scoring the three points, also by virtue of tomorrow's direct clash between Fiorentina and Roma, which could favor the Nerazzurri. “I'm happy that no one puts us among the favorites for the Scudetto – glossed over the coach from Jesi. – On the other hand, there are teams like Juventus, Naples and Rome that are better equipped.
We are growing, I am convinced that we will do well”. Next week will be rather indicative: the Nerazzurri will face two "small" players such as Palermo and Bologna (Tuesday) and a big player such as Roma (Saturday). The picture of Inter's real strength will certainly be clearer, which is why winning tonight would have a considerable weight. Woe, however, to underestimating Palermo, who after 4 consecutive defeats found victory by conquering the Dall'Ara of Bologna. “They have 10 points in the standings, they are an excellent team – thought del Mancio. – And then they have important players like Vazquez and Gilardino, as well as many young prospects. We'll have to put in great intensity like with Juve, but try to score one or more goals."
And precisely for this reason the coach is thinking of a more offensive Inter than usual, starting with the form. Tonight it will be 4-2-3-1 with Handanovic in goal, Santon, Miranda, Murillo and Telles in defence, Felipe Melo (favorite over Kondogbia) and Medel in midfield, Perisic, Jovetic and Guarin in the trocar, Icardi in attack. Eyes on Maurito, so far the author of only 2 goals (Chievo and Fiorentina) and, more generally, subdued performances. “He's our striker and I'm convinced that he'll be back to scoring regularly soon – the coach's words. – He will be instrumental in taking us to the top of the standings ”. Iachini hopes that the Argentine will postpone his exploit again, in an attempt to give continuity to the victory in Bologna.
The Rosanero will play with the following 3-5-1-1: Sorrentino in goal, Struna, Gonzalez and Andelkovic in defense, Rispoli, Hiljemark, Maresca, Rigoni and Lazaar in midfield, Vazquez and Gilardino in attack.
