Ex Bayern Munich Star Explains Inter Milan Second Half Struggles Vs Udinese: ‘It’s Hard To Succeed Against Them With Long Balls’ | OneFootball

Yann Sommer feels that it became hard for Inter Milan to get much joy out of long balls against Udinese yesterday.

The 36-year-old spoke to Portuguese broadcaster SportTV, via FCInterNews, after yesterday’s 2-1 Serie A victory.

Inter Milan had to endure a nervy last twenty or so minutes to yesterday’s match against Udinese.

In the first half, the Nerazzurri had been in complete control. They put in a completely convincing performance and controlled the match with poossession.

However, in the second half, Udinese responded. The Friulani became much more aggressive. They pushed up higher, throwing a late onslaught at Inter in search of the equalizer.

Sommer: “Hard For Inter Milan To Succeed Vs Udinese With Long Balls”

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 11: Goalkeeper Yann Sommer of FC Internazionale during the pre-season friendly match between Chelsea and FC Internazionale at Stamford Bridge on August 11, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)

At times, Inter had no real short passing options as Udinese looked to really push up.

And that meant that the Nerazzurri’s simplest option was often to simply kick it long.

However, this was not exactly a viable plan to retain control or slow the match down.

Moreover, the problem with these long clearances was that more often than not, the height and physicality of the Udinese players allowed them to immediately win possession of the ball.

That was also how Udinese defender Oumar Solet was able to score in the second half.

Inter Milan keeper Yann Sommer admitted that yesterday was “tough” match.

“In the second half they pressed a lot more, and we played a lot of long balls,” he continued.

“It’s tough to succeed with long balls against a team like that,” said Sommer.

“I think they took a lot more risks in attack,” continued the Swiss former Bayern Munich and Borussia Monchengladbach keeper. “And we didn’t have options to get between the lines.”

“They’re physical. They send the ball right back to you. So it’s difficult.”

Meanwhile, Sommer gave his thoughts on the upcoming Coppa Italia semifinal derby against AC Milan. “It’s another match,” said the 36-year-old. “It’s very important.”

“Now we have to recover quickly. Then we’ll think about that match.”