Nicolo Barella dominated in the midfield during Inter’s comfortable 2-0 victory over Lecce. After a poor showing last week against Bologna, the Nerazzurri rebounded in style, as Denzel Dumfries and Henrikh Mkhitaryan returned to form. The hosts’ backline also turned in an impressive display, allowing Lecce few real attacking chances.
Andre Onana – 6.5
With Lecce struggling to break through the Inter defense, Onana practically had the day off. The goalkeeper made just one save, a half-hearted effort by Assan Ceesay from distance.
Matteo Darmian – 7
At times, Darmian’s defensive play was lacking, but the defender made several strong tackles while moving the ball well along the backline.
Francesco Acerbi – 8
Acerbi continues to show why he may be the defensive signing of the season. Against Lecce, the centre-back won an astounding six aerial duels and two tackles.
Alessandro Bastoni – 7
While the left-most defender had a quieter match than his counterparts, Bastoni had a decent match, taking care of the ball when in possession.
Denzel Dumfries – 8
From his position on the wing, Dumfries was a key component of Inter’s attack. The Dutch wing-back was at his best, driving the ball into the channel and picking out Lautaro in the box to confirm the win.
Robin Gosens – 7.5
Across from Dumfries, Gosens put in a solid shift on the left wing. He dominated Lecce’s full-back, Valentin Gendrey, disrupting the chemistry between the defender and Gabriel Strefezza.
Hakan Calhanoglu – 6.5
The Turkish midfielder played in a few dangerous set pieces, but his passing from open play was not as influential as he would have liked.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan – 8
After playing poorly in Inter’s last two matches, Mkhitaryan returned to form in style. The midfielder made several instrumental plays in the centre of the pitch, distributing the ball well and scoring a wonderful curling strike give his side the lead.
Nicolo Barella – 8.5
By far the best player on the pitch, Barella was in fine form while leading the Inter attack. He frequently progressed the ball into the attacking third, beating several Lecce players on the dribble. He also picked up an assist, showing off his vision when he found Mkhitaryan open in the box with a back-pass.
Edin Dzeko – 8
While Lautaro played centrally, Dzeko frequently floated to the left wing. From this position, he created several attacking chances for his side, including a sublime drive into the box that ultimately led to the opening goal.
Lautaro Martinez – 7.5
After a quiet first half, the Argentinian came alive during the second 45 minutes. He frequently dropped into the midfield to assist Inter’s build-up play, and his wonderful strike in the 53rd minute put the match out of reach.
Not joking when I’m saying Inter could’ve had three penalties today
— Siavoush Fallahi (@SiavoushF) March 5, 2023