Inter Milan vs Barcelona: Why Inzaghi Preferred Dimarco to Raphinha? A Tactical Match Report

The Champions League group stage clash between Inter Milan and Barcelona at the San Siro was a captivating encounter, ending in a thrilling 3-3 draw. While the attacking prowess of both teams was on full display, one tactical decision by Inter manager Simone Inzaghi particularly caught the eye: his preference for Federico Dimarco over the in-form Raphinha. This tactical match report will delve into the reasons behind this choice and analyze the overall impact on the game.

The Dimarco Decision: A Defensive Masterclass?

Inzaghi's decision to deploy Dimarco, primarily a left-back, over a more naturally attacking option like Raphinha, initially raised eyebrows. However, the game unfolded to reveal a shrewd tactical plan. While Raphinha's pace and dribbling ability are undeniable assets, Inzaghi prioritized defensive solidity against Barcelona's potent attacking trio of Lewandowski, Dembélé, and Raphinha himself.

• Containing Dembélé: Dimarco's defensive attributes proved crucial in neutralizing the threat posed by Ousmane Dembélé on the right flank. His positioning and tackling disrupted Dembélé's runs, limiting his influence on the game considerably more than if a more offensively-minded player was assigned to him.

• Building from the Back: Dimarco's comfort on the ball and ability to initiate attacks from deep allowed Inter to bypass Barcelona's press effectively. His accurate passing and intelligent positioning helped Inter build possession and create scoring opportunities. This aspect of his game significantly countered Barcelona's high press.

• Set-Piece Prowess: Let's not forget Dimarco's contributions from set-pieces. His deliveries into the box are a consistent threat, and while he didn't directly contribute to a goal in this match, his presence added another dimension to Inter's attacking strategy.

Barcelona's Offensive Firepower and Inter's Response

Despite Inzaghi's defensive focus, Barcelona's attacking threat remained significant. Lewandowski's clinical finishing and Dembélé's mesmerizing runs caused Inter problems throughout the match. However, Inter's disciplined defense, bolstered by Dimarco's contribution, managed to contain the threat to a degree.

• The Importance of Defensive Structure: Inter's defensive organization was key to their ability to withstand Barcelona's attacks. The team's compact shape made it difficult for Barcelona to find space in behind the defense, limiting their clear-cut chances.

• Counter-Attacking Opportunities: Inter's counter-attacking prowess shone through, exploiting the spaces left by Barcelona's high line. The speed and precision of their transitions caught Barcelona off guard, leading to some dangerous moments.

A Tactical Draw: Assessing the Outcome

The 3-3 draw ultimately highlighted the tactical battle between two highly skilled managers. While Inzaghi's prioritization of Dimarco might have sacrificed some attacking potential, it provided Inter with a crucial defensive stability against a formidable opponent. This decision, along with Inter's tactical flexibility, made the match a compelling display of strategic prowess on both sides.

Conclusion: More Than Just Goals

The Inter Milan vs Barcelona match was much more than just a high-scoring affair. It served as a fascinating case study in tactical decision-making. Inzaghi's preference for Dimarco over Raphinha demonstrated a willingness to prioritize defensive solidity against a potent attacking force. While both managers showcased their tactical expertise, the outcome emphasized the importance of a well-structured and adaptable game plan in high-stakes Champions League encounters. The draw ultimately proved that in top-level football, defensive stability and tactical awareness can be just as important, if not more so, than pure offensive firepower. The performance of Dimarco underscored this point perfectly.