Serie A: Lookman forces Conte into tactical sacrifices

Inter boss forced to change approach as Atalanta's flying winger tears Nerazzurri apart

Atalanta's Ademola Lookman put Antonio Conte's Inter to the sword on Monday, forcing the Nerazzurri boss to rethink his tactical approach in a 2-2 draw that leaves the reigning champions seven points behind leaders Napoli in Serie A.

Lookman's brilliance

The 24-year-old Nigerian was in devastating form, scoring one goal and setting up another for fellow wing-back Joakim Maehle as Atalanta took a shock 2-0 lead at the San Siro.

Lookman's pace, skill and direct running caused Inter's defence all sorts of problems, with the former Leicester City and RB Leipzig man proving unstoppable at times.

Conte's response

Conte responded by switching to a 3-5-2 formation in the second half, with Alessandro Bastoni dropping back into defence alongside Milan Skriniar and Stefan de Vrij.

The change helped Inter to regain some control of the game, with Edin Dzeko pulling a goal back in the 61st minute before Denzel Dumfries equalised 12 minutes later.

Tactical battle

The match was a fascinating tactical battle between two of Serie A's most respected coaches, with Conte eventually getting the better of Gian Piero Gasperini.

However, Inter's failure to win means that they are now seven points behind Napoli, who have a game in hand on the reigning champions.