UEFA Europa League 2019/20: Inter vs Bayer Leverkusen – tactical analysis

Unavoidable circumstances saw UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League be reduced to a one-leg tie in the knockouts. Inter Milan vs Bayer Leverkusen could be judged as the most interesting tie in the Europa League quarterfinals, however, the perception may vary, and with a one-legged affair, it was bound to be more thrilling.

The tactical battle in this fixture was colossal and Antonio Conte edged his counterpart, Peter Bosz, in both the departments – out of possession and in possession.

This tactical analysis will dive into the tactics of both the managers and decipher how exactly did Antonio Conte get the better of Peter Bosz.

Line-ups

Antonio Conte started with his preferred 5-3-2 and the usual strike duo up front. The midfield comprised of Roberto Gagliardini, Marcelo Brozović, and Nicolò Barella. The goalkeeper, Samir Handanović was well protected by Ashley Young, Alessandro Bastoni, Stefan de Vrij, Diego Godin, and Danilo D’Ambrosio.

Peter Bosz started with a formation which he hardly used throughout the season. The much utilised 4-2-3-1 and 3-4-3 changed to 4-3-3 which saw Kai Havertz and Moussa Diaby on either side of Kevin Volland. Exequiel Palacios, Julian Baumgartlinger, and Kerem Demirbay sat in the heart of the midfield. The defence saw only one change from their previous fixture against Rangers as Jonathan Tah replaced Sven Bender as the right centre-back.

The successful story of Inter’s press

The constant change in tactics by Peter Bosz to counter Conte’s high press was an enthralling battle. The battle was to free up Daley Sinkgraven to build-up from the back for Peter Bosz and for Conte to either block a passing lane to him or prevent the progression of Leverkusen through the left-back.