Roberto Mancini’s Inter Milan returned to the top of the Serie A table momentarily with yet another narrow win.
Inter have recorded their eighth 1-0 victory of the season, this time coming at the expense of Gian Piero Gasperini’s Genoa side, with Adem Ljajic striking the match’s solitary goal at the San Siro on Saturday.
The Serbian’s free kick just before the hour was whipped into the box dangerously, however no player was able to get a touch and it skidded off the turf and into the corner past Mattia Perin in goal for the away side.
The victory sees Inter get back to winning ways after their loss to Napoli earlier in the week, while Genoa have recorded just one win in their last seven in the league and are hovering precariously above the relegation zone.
Inter Milan
Samir Handanovic – 6.5: The 31-year-old had little to do during the match. Averted a menacing cross from Diogo Figueiras early in the second half and got down low well to hold onto a long-range effort from Tino Costa.
Danilo D’Ambrosio – 6: The former Torino man was not effective as an attacking presence and was occasionally caught out in defence, with his sending off near the end of the game highlighting this.
João Miranda – 7.5: The Brazilian provided yet another assured and solid display at the heart of the Inter defence. Was simply impassable.
Jeison Murillo – 7: The tough-tackling centre-back was his usual robust and combative self, making it near impossible for Genoa to break through.
Alex Telles – 7: The left-back was an all round solid performer, contributing to both his side’s attack and defence in an efficient manner.
Gary Medel – 7: The tireless midfielder was destructive in the middle of midfield as usual, interrupting the Rossublu’s play.
Felipe Melo – 6.5: Before being taken off at half time with what was suspected to be concussion, the former Galatasaray man was a formidable presence alongside Medel.
Jonathan Biabiany – 7.5: Constantly tormented the Grifone defence, the Frenchman linked up well with team mates and was consistent in his play.
Stevan Jovetic – 6.5: Not his usual dazzling self, had a chance to put the Nerazzurri up early in the second half but skied his effort.
Adem Ljajic – 8.5: Following on from an impressive performance against Napoli, the Serb was once more the main threat coming from Inter’s attack and may have had a hat-trick on another day.
Rodrigo Palacio – 6: In for the below-par Mauro Icardi, the ageing Argentine put in a decent shift though did not get too involved.
Substitutes
Marcelo Brozovic – 6: On for the concussed Melo, the Croatian did not provide the spark in midfield that he has displayed in recent weeks.
Ivan Perišic – 6: Did not get too involved after coming on, did go on a menacing run that culminated in an Internazionale chance though.
Fredy Guarín – N/A: Could not impact the game late.
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