Inter takes the derby and aims for playoffs with a 1-0 that doesn't reflect their dominance

Tactical dominance and a misleading result

The final 1-0 might seem like a close result, but the reality of the match was very different. Inter, with an xG of 3.8, displayed absolute dominance over Cagliari, which barely managed to create danger. From the start, the visitors took control of the ball and the chances, with 30 total shots compared to their opponent's 10.

The first half was a monologue from Cristian Chivu's team, which took the lead in the 9th minute thanks to a goal from Hakan Çalhanoğlu, assisted by Nicolò Barella. From there, Inter maintained the pressure, generating a flurry of opportunities that, however, did not translate into more goals.

Bastoni and the key to imbalance

Although the winning goal was scored by Çalhanoğlu, Alessandro Bastoni was the real architect of the imbalance in Inter's attack. With a rating of 8, the defender not only fulfilled his defensive duties but also pushed forward, making 4 key passes that broke Cagliari's defensive structure. His performance was crucial in keeping Inter in control of the match.

The home team, on the other hand, was forced to make three substitutions within the first 15 minutes of the second half, trying to adjust their lineup in response to the constant pressure from the opponent. However, the lack of clarity in attack translated into a zero in shots on target, an alarming statistic for Fabio Pisacane's side.

Inter keeps a clean sheet

Despite the narrow victory, Inter can feel satisfied not only with the win but also with having kept their goal intact. Chivu's team did not allow a single shot on target, with goalkeeper Josep Martínez having no need to make saves. This aspect highlights the defensive solidity of the team, which also places them in sixth position in the table, with 3 points, in a fight for the playoffs.

The possession difference was noticeable: 65% for Inter against Cagliari's 35%, a reflection of the dominance in play. The accuracy of passes also favored the visitors, who achieved a 91% success rate on their 678 passes, while Cagliari only reached 84% with 362 passes.

A derby marked by history

This match is framed in one of the most lopsided rivalries in Serie A, with 29 previous encounters in which Cagliari has only managed 4 victories against Inter's 19. This new triumph reaffirms the historical supremacy of the Milanese team, which continues its path in the league with a solid playing foundation.

The victory, although hard-fought, leaves Inter in a favorable position heading into the next round, while Cagliari will need to rethink their strategy if they want to rise from the middle of the table.