Counter attacking, it’t the Italian way. It was nothing different on the opening night for Inter Milan. Possession led to few chances, and the odd giveaway, which in turn led to chances for Chievo Verona. Chievo ended up scoring 2 great goals to take the game 2-0.
The first half was all Inter. The ball rarely touched a Chievo player, and when it did, it wasn’t long until Inter won the ball back. Inter dominated 70% of possession going into the half, and also had a few good chances to show for it. Unfortunately, Chievo keeper Stefano Sorrentino came up with some great saves to keep his team in the game going into halftime. The second half is where things turned around for Chievo.
An early goal from Valter Birsa in the second half gave Chievo a burst of energy. Suddenly possession swung back in favor of Chievo a bit and Inter stopped dominating the game. By the end Chievo had the upper hand, and the better chances. A second goal, and a great one at that, sealed the game for Chievo. Birsa hit a great curling shot from outside the box. Handanovic was rooted to the spot as the ball nestled in the far corner, cementing Chievo’s opening day win.
Inter looked dangerous in the first half, with Ever Banega and Eder looking lively on the ball. Geoffrey Kondogbia played a good first half as well, and started to look like the highly touted prospect that Inter originally purchased. Unfortunately a sloppy second half caused a drop in the quality of play. Former captain Andre Rannochia received the start next to Miranda in the back line, and looked his usually shaky self. Inter will be glad to have Jeison Murillo back as the season wears onward. Mauro Icardi found it difficult to get involved all game. The compact Chievo line made it impossible for him to find space for a pass. Thusly he was invisible for much of the game.
