Inter Milan’s Journey: From Treble Glory to Scudetto Redemption

 The 2009–10 season remains etched in Italian football folklore, a testament to Inter Milan’s dominance under the tactical genius of José Mourinho. Claiming the UEFA Champions League by defeating Bayern Munich 2–0 in the final, overcoming reigning champions Barcelona in the semi-finals, and securing the Serie A title by a narrow two-point margin over Roma, Inter also added the Coppa Italia to their cabinet. This historic treble made Inter the first Italian team to achieve such a feat, heralding what many believed would be the dawn of a new era.

However, the following decade unfolded a starkly different narrative, marked by managerial instability, ownership changes, and fluctuating fortunes.

Post-Treble Aftermath: The Decline Begins

With Mourinho’s departure to Real Madrid, Inter appointed Rafa Benítez, who led them to victory in the 2010 Supercoppa Italiana and the FIFA Club World Cup. Yet, his tenure was marred by unsatisfactory league performances, culminating in his dismissal. Brazilian legend Leonardo replaced Benítez, bringing initial success with record-breaking Serie A points but ultimately falling short in Europe. Despite a Coppa Italia triumph, Leonardo’s resignation initiated a carousel of managers, including Gian Piero Gasperini, Claudio Ranieri, and Andrea Stramaccioni, none of whom could restore stability.

A Decade of Turmoil: Ownership Changes and False Dawns

From 2011 to 2019, Inter endured a period of upheaval. Financial struggles and inconsistent performances became the norm as the club transitioned through various ownerships. In 2013, Indonesian businessman Erick Thohir acquired a majority stake, shifting Inter towards a self-sustaining financial model. However, breaches of UEFA Financial Fair Play regulations in 2015 underscored the challenges of this transition.

The managerial merry-go-round continued, with Roberto Mancini’s return in 2014 yielding mixed results. Luciano Spalletti’s appointment in 2017 brought a semblance of stability, culminating in a return to the UEFA Champions League after a six-year absence. Yet, even Spalletti’s efforts couldn’t mask the club’s deeper issues.

The Suning Era: Ambitions Rekindled

The 2016 acquisition of Inter by Suning Holdings Group, led by Zhang Jindong, marked a new chapter. Significant investments followed, but early seasons under Suning’s ownership were plagued by managerial changes and underwhelming performances. Frank de Boer’s disastrous tenure and Stefano Pioli’s short-lived success highlighted the club’s ongoing struggles.

Spalletti’s arrival steadied the ship, but it was Antonio Conte’s appointment in 2019 that signalled a true turning point. With a clear vision and an uncompromising approach, Conte began rebuilding Inter into a competitive force.

Antonio Conte’s Revolution: The Scudetto Triumph

Conte inherited a team burdened by years of mediocrity. His first season saw Inter finish second in Serie A and as runners-up in the UEFA Europa League, losing narrowly to Sevilla. Determined to end Juventus’ decade-long dominance, Conte demanded a champion’s mentality from his squad.

The 2020–21 season began with challenges. Early setbacks, including a derby loss to AC Milan and a humiliating group-stage exit in the Champions League, tested the team’s resolve. Yet, Conte’s relentless drive transformed the squad. Key players like Romelu Lukaku, Achraf Hakimi, and Nicolò Barella flourished under his guidance, while Christian Eriksen’s resurgence added creative flair.

Inter’s turning point came in February 2021 with a decisive 3–0 victory over AC Milan, propelling them to the top of the table. Conte’s 3-5-2 formation, emphasizing defensive solidity and midfield dominance, proved pivotal. The Nerazzurri secured the Scudetto with four games to spare, ending Juventus’ reign and reclaiming their place at Italian football’s summit.

Tactical Brilliance and Squad Resilience

Conte’s Inter was a masterclass in tactical discipline and adaptability. Boasting the league’s best defensive record and a formidable attack, the team’s +45 goal difference underscored their dominance. Lukaku emerged as a talisman, combining physicality with clinical finishing, while Hakimi’s marauding runs added dynamism. Barella’s midfield tenacity and Eriksen’s creativity further exemplified the team’s balance.

Inter’s triumph was not merely a product of individual brilliance but a collective effort. Conte instilled a winning mentality, transforming a fragmented squad into a cohesive unit capable of withstanding pressure and delivering results.

A New Dawn?

Inter’s Scudetto victory represents more than just a return to glory; it’s a testament to resilience and reinvention. The challenge now lies in sustaining this success amidst financial constraints and increasing competition. With a Champions League berth secured, the Nerazzurri must aim for consistent performances on both domestic and European fronts.

Antonio Conte’s tenure has laid the foundation for a brighter future. Whether this marks the beginning of a sustained resurgence or a fleeting moment of triumph will depend on the club’s ability to navigate the complexities of modern football. For now, Inter Milan stands as a symbol of revival, a phoenix rising from the ashes of a tumultuous decade.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar  

Pakistan’s Commanding Victory Over Zimbabwe: A Tale of Contrasts and Concerns

 The result of the first Test between Pakistan and Zimbabwe was predictable—barring the kind of implosion that has occasionally plagued Pakistan’s cricketing history. The real question, however, was whether Pakistan would secure victory in a laboured fashion or with authority. In the end, it was the latter, as Zimbabwe capitulated within three days. 

Winning the toss and electing to bat first seemed a sound decision by Zimbabwe, but the relentless pace of Pakistan’s bowlers quickly dismantled any hopes of a competitive start. The lack of experience in playing the five-day format was glaringly evident as Zimbabwe’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure in both innings. 

A Harsh Lesson in Pace

Zimbabwe entered the match already weakened by the absence of key players such as Craig Ervine, Sikandar Raza, and their captain, Sean Williams. This left their batting order vulnerable, and Pakistan’s pacers ruthlessly exploited it. 

In the first innings, the duo of Hasan Ali and Shaheen Shah Afridi delivered a masterclass in seam bowling, leaving the Zimbabwean batters looking out of their depth. Hasan Ali’s relentless accuracy and aggression were the standout features of the second innings, where he single-handedly demolished the opposition. 

Pakistan’s dominance with the ball was complemented by an impressive display with the bat, as their top order enjoyed a productive outing. The disparity between the two sides was stark, highlighting the gulf in quality and preparation. 

Zimbabwe’s Struggles: A Symptom of Neglect

For cricket fans, watching Zimbabwe’s struggles in the longest format is a sombre experience. This is a team that earned its Test status through hard-fought battles, unlike some others who have been granted it as part of the globalization of cricket. 

Zimbabwe’s decline is not merely a result of on-field shortcomings but also a reflection of deeper systemic issues. Political instability has cast a long shadow over the nation’s cricket, leading to mismanagement and a lack of resources. However, Zimbabwe’s plight raises uncomfortable questions about the cricketing world’s priorities. 

While some lower-ranked teams continue to receive significant support despite consistently poor performances in Test cricket, Zimbabwe is left to fend for itself. The contrast is striking when compared to Afghanistan, a nation grappling with its own challenges yet benefiting from substantial backing to develop its cricketing infrastructure. Afghanistan’s progress is commendable and necessary, but it underscores the selective nature of cricket’s support systems. 

A Cautionary Tale: Remembering Kenya

The neglect of Zimbabwe’s cricket evokes memories of Kenya, a team that once showed immense promise but faded into obscurity due to a lack of attention and resources. Zimbabwe, despite its struggles, remains in the Test arena, fighting to stay relevant. 

Given the opportunity, Zimbabwe could serve as a competitive force in world cricket. Unlike some other teams, they have shown a willingness to learn and improve when given the chance to play against top-tier sides. The onus lies on the cricketing fraternity to ensure that teams like Zimbabwe are not left behind. 

The Need for Equitable Support

Cricket’s governing bodies must adopt a more inclusive approach to developing the game. Supporting emerging teams is vital, but it should not come at the expense of those who have already proven their worth. Zimbabwe’s cricket needs more than just sporadic fixtures against top sides; it requires a consistent schedule, financial backing, and infrastructural development. 

The victory for Pakistan was emphatic, but the broader narrative is one of imbalance. Zimbabwe’s struggles should serve as a wake-up call for the cricketing world to address the disparities in support and opportunities. 

A Future Worth Fighting For

Zimbabwe’s resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to their passion for cricket. Their continued presence in Test cricket is a reminder of the sport’s ability to endure even in challenging circumstances. However, their survival should not be left to chance. 

The cricketing community must ensure that Zimbabwe—and other struggling nations—are given the platform they deserve. Only then can the true spirit of the game, which celebrates competition and inclusivity, thrive. 

For now, Pakistan’s victory will be celebrated, but the story of Zimbabwe’s cricket remains one of unfulfilled potential and systemic neglect. It is a story that demands change before it becomes another cautionary tale like Kenya’s.

 Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Gordon Greenidge: The Unassuming Titan of West Indies Cricket

The 1984 Lord’s Test was a moment of reckoning—not just for England’s David Gower, who boldly set West Indies a seemingly impossible 342 to win in five-and-a-half hours, but also for the man who dismantled that challenge with an audacity bordering on defiance. Gordon Greenidge, the Barbados-born opener, took the chase as a personal declaration of dominance. By the time he had sent Neil Foster hurtling into the stands with a hook shot that sealed his double century, the contest had long ceased to be a contest. England, once in control, had been obliterated. Ian Botham, a fast bowler renowned for his aggression, was reduced to bowling off-spin, a desperate concession to Greenidge’s mastery.

It was the kind of innings that defined Greenidge: unrelenting, precise, powerful. Wisden described it as "powerful," an adjective that encapsulated his career. Frank Keating likened him to "a sadistic uncle enjoying an afternoon’s beach cricket against his nieces and nephews back home in Barbados." A cruel analogy, perhaps, but one that captured the air of inevitability whenever Greenidge decided to dominate.

Two Tests later, he crafted an innings of 223 at Old Trafford, paving the way for West Indies’ legendary 5-0 "Blackwash" of England. By then, Greenidge had evolved from a brash stroke-maker into something rarer—a master craftsman who merged English discipline with West Indian flair. If Viv Richards embodied raw aggression and Clive Lloyd, strategic brilliance, Greenidge stood apart as a technician of destruction, a batsman who dissected rather than dismantled.

The Uncelebrated Great

Despite being a linchpin of the Caribbean cricketing machine from the mid-1970s to the early 1990s, Greenidge never quite commanded the same adulation as his peers. Richards had his swaggering confrontations, Lloyd his aura of leadership, and the West Indian pace battery their sheer menace. Greenidge, by contrast, operated with quiet efficiency, more a scalpel than a sledgehammer.

His reserved nature may have played a role. Unlike Richards, he was not a natural showman, nor did he revel in public adulation. His cricket did the talking, but in a team of larger-than-life figures, he sometimes became an afterthought. His journey—one of displacement, adaptation, and self-reinvention—only added to this paradox.

A Search for Identity

Born in Barbados, Greenidge was an outsider in his own land. When he migrated to England in his mid-teens to join his mother in Reading, he was thrust into an alien world, where cricket was a game of summer afternoons, not the lifeblood of the Caribbean. England in the late 1960s was a society grappling with the realities of immigration, and Greenidge found himself navigating cultural hostility and racial prejudice.

His formative years in Reading were turbulent. In The Man in the Middle, his prematurely written 1980 autobiography, he recalled his early struggles with integration—both into English society and into cricket. The racism he encountered was not always overt, but it was pervasive, an unspoken barrier that forced him into a shell of self-preservation. His accent became polished, his demeanor restrained, yet the explosive force of his batting was perhaps shaped by an underlying anger, a simmering rebellion against the slights he endured.

The contradictions of his identity would follow him throughout his career. When he returned to Barbados in 1973 to play Shell Shield cricket, he was perceived as an outsider, a player who had "gone English." Suspicion surrounded him, and it took years for him to be fully embraced by his home crowd.

The Making of a Master

If Greenidge was an anomaly off the field, his cricketing evolution was one of sheer determination. He was not an immediate prodigy—by his own admission, he was not a standout talent as a schoolboy. Yet through persistence and a relentless work ethic, he forced his way into Hampshire’s county setup in 1968. It was not an easy journey; he nearly lost his contract after a string of forgettable performances. But when given a second chance, he honed his technique with a single-minded intensity.

Barry Richards, his opening partner at Hampshire, played a pivotal role in his development. While Richards exuded classical grace, Greenidge was all muscle and aggression. Yet, in watching the South African maestro from the non-striker’s end, Greenidge refined his own game, tempering his natural belligerence with a deeper understanding of control. The partnership was an apprenticeship in precision, and by the early 1970s, Greenidge had transformed into a player of substance.

His Test debut in 1974 against India was an immediate statement—93 in the first innings, followed by a blistering 103 in the second. It was a performance that heralded a career of sustained excellence. In the summer of 1976, as West Indies crushed England in response to Tony Greig’s infamous "grovel" remark, Greenidge plundered centuries at Old Trafford and Headingley, laying the foundation for a dynasty.

Yet, through the late 1970s and early 1980s, inconsistency plagued him. His natural aggression sometimes betrayed him, leading to premature dismissals. But after the tragedy of 1983—when his two-year-old daughter died of kidney failure—something changed. Cricket became both a refuge and a battleground. He emerged a more ruthless batsman from personal loss, embarking on a period of dominance that saw him compile double centuries at Lord’s and Old Trafford in 1984, cementing his place among the greats.

The Final Bow

By the late 1980s, Greenidge’s powers were waning. He still had his moments—117 against England at Lord’s in 1988, and a farewell 226 at Bridgetown in 1991—but his body faltered. The knee injury that ended his career during the 1991 tour of England was perhaps inevitable, a sign that the warrior had finally outlasted his battles.

He left Test cricket with 7,558 runs at 44.72, his opening partnership with Desmond Haynes amassing 6,482 runs—one of the most prolific duos in cricket history. His one-day record was equally formidable, with an average of 45.03 in an era when scores of 250 were considered insurmountable.

The Enigma of Greenidge

Greenidge’s legacy is one of quiet greatness. He was not a revolutionary like Richards, nor a statesmanlike Lloyd. He did not bowl thunderbolts like Holding or Garner. But in the pantheon of West Indian cricket, his place is secure. He was the man who turned the first hour of a Test match into a battle of wills, who made fast bowlers rethink their length, who transformed the hook shot into a statement of defiance.

Peter Roebuck once speculated that Greenidge may have resented Richards’ larger-than-life presence, but the truth is likely more nuanced. Perhaps Greenidge was content in his role—the silent executioner, the man who softened the opposition before Richards and Lloyd feasted.

In full flight, he was unstoppable, his square cuts carving through the off-side with mathematical precision, his hooks blurring into the stands before bowlers could react. Roebuck captured him best:

“In full flight, he was a glorious sight, and impossible to contain. So awesome was his power, so complete his authority, that once a bombardment was under way not a ball could be bowled to him. In this mood he was like an orator suddenly aroused with passion, devouring opposition with a tongue-lashing which was vivid, inspired and devastating.”

A cricketer shaped by displacement, defined by discipline, and remembered for destruction—Gordon Greenidge remains one of the most fascinating enigmas in the game’s history.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

The Rise and Fall of the Super League: A Triumph for Football’s Soul

The match between Chelsea and Brighton may have ended in a goalless stalemate, but the events surrounding it transcended the confines of the pitch. This was no ordinary night in football; it was a night when Chelsea fans, united with the global football community, voiced their outrage against what they saw as an existential threat to the beautiful game. 

Outside Stamford Bridge, protests erupted against the European Super League (ESL), a concept that had sent shockwaves across the footballing world. The t-shirts worn by Brighton players during their warm-up—bearing the slogan “Earn it; football is for the fans”—summed up the collective sentiment of millions. Even Roman Abramovich, Chelsea’s owner and architect of a trophy-laden era, found himself at the receiving end of the fans’ ire. 

Fittingly, the protest unfolded outside the Butcher’s Hook pub, the birthplace of Chelsea Football Club in 1905. It was a poignant reminder of football’s humble roots, a stark contrast to the audacious elitism that the Super League represented. 

The Super League: An Assault on Football’s Identity

The European Super League was introduced as a breakaway competition involving 12 of Europe’s wealthiest clubs. Its announcement was met with near-universal condemnation. For fans, players, and pundits alike, the ESL was more than just a restructuring of competitions; it was an affront to the sport’s very ethos. 

Football has always been more than a game. It is a unifying force, a global language that bridges cultures and generations. It is a sport where underdogs can dream of toppling giants, and where merit and passion are rewarded. The ESL threatened to dismantle this egalitarian spirit, replacing it with a closed system designed to serve the interests of a select few. 

The league’s proponents attempted to justify their actions with rhetoric about modernization, financial sustainability, and engaging younger fans. But their arguments rang hollow, drowned out by the overwhelming backlash from fans, players, and clubs who refused to be complicit in what they saw as a betrayal of football’s core values. 

The Fans Fight Back

The backlash was swift and ferocious. Across Europe, fans took to the streets, voicing their dissent outside stadiums and on social media. In England, the protests reached a crescendo outside Anfield, the Etihad, and Stamford Bridge. The message was clear: football belongs to the people, not to a cabal of billionaires. 

Chelsea supporters were among the first to make their voices heard. Their protest, filled with chants and banners, forced the club’s hierarchy into a rethink. Chelsea became the first of the Premier League’s “Big Six” to signal their intention to withdraw from the Super League. Soon after, Manchester City followed suit, and by the end of the day, Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Tottenham had all announced their exits. 

The scenes of celebration outside Stamford Bridge were symbolic of a larger victory—a victory for the collective power of fans. 

The Collapse of the Super League

The dominoes began to fall rapidly. Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, and Paris Saint-Germain had already distanced themselves from the project. The Premier League’s 14 other clubs issued a united statement condemning the ESL, and the Football Association (FA) threatened to ban participating clubs from domestic competitions. 

Even within the rebel clubs, dissent was brewing. Liverpool’s captain, Jordan Henderson, issued a statement on behalf of the squad opposing the Super League, while club legend Kenny Dalglish publicly urged the owners to “do the right thing.” Arsenal, alone among the Big Six, issued a formal apology to their fans. 

The UK government, led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, also intervened, promising to introduce legislation to block the ESL if necessary. The combined weight of fan protests, institutional resistance, and political pressure proved insurmountable. By the evening of April 20, the Super League had crumbled, its plans left in tatters. 

A Cautionary Tale

The collapse of the Super League is a testament to the power of unity. Fans, players, and governing bodies stood together to protect the integrity of the sport. It was a rare moment of solidarity in a fractured world, a reminder that football’s true strength lies in its ability to bring people together. 

However, the battle is far from over. The forces behind the Super League may have been defeated, but their motivations—greed, elitism, and a disregard for tradition—remain. The threat of similar schemes looms large, and the football community must remain vigilant. 

Football: The People’s Game

The Super League was not just a challenge to UEFA or domestic leagues; it was an attack on the soul of football. It sought to commodify a sport that has always been about more than money. 

For now, the fans have won. The protests outside Stamford Bridge, the slogans on Brighton’s t-shirts, and the collective outcry from every corner of the globe reaffirmed a simple truth: football belongs to the people. 

And as long as fans continue to fight for what they love, no amount of money or power can take that away.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Zidane’s Tactical Masterclass: Real Madrid’s Resilience at Anfield

Anfield has a storied history of miraculous comebacks and dramatic nights under the floodlights. Zinedine Zidane, however, ensured that Real Madrid would not become the latest victims of its magic. Memories of Monaco’s stunning comeback in 2004 and Barcelona’s infamous collapse in 2019 loomed large, but Zidane’s tactical acumen and Real Madrid’s resolute performance silenced Liverpool’s hopes. With a 3-1 first-leg advantage, Los Blancos secured a hard-fought 0-0 draw, advancing to the 2020-21 Champions League semifinals with a display of composure and mental fortitude.

Zidane’s Patchwork Masterpiece

With injuries and absences decimating his squad, Zidane was forced into a makeshift lineup. Federico Valverde, a midfielder by trade, was deployed at right-back alongside Eder Militao, Nacho Fernandez, and Ferland Mendy in a reshuffled backline. Upfront, Marco Asensio joined Vinícius Júnior and Karim Benzema in a 4-3-3 formation, mirroring Jürgen Klopp’s setup.

Despite their depleted ranks, Real Madrid’s approach was anything but conservative. Zidane’s strategy was clear: absorb Liverpool’s initial onslaught, exploit the spaces left by their high-pressing full-backs, and remain disciplined in defence. It was a tactical balancing act that required precision and patience, both of which Madrid executed to perfection.

Liverpool’s Aggression Meets Madrid’s Resilience

Liverpool began the match with relentless intensity, pressing high and building from the back. Their wing-backs, Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold, pushed forward aggressively, aiming to overload Madrid’s flanks. Real Madrid, however, remained unfazed. Instead of engaging in a frantic counter-press, they maintained their shape, allowing Liverpool to commit numbers forward while preparing to capitalize on transitions.

Karim Benzema played a pivotal role in disrupting Liverpool’s buildup. His intelligent pressing forced Fabinho to drop deeper, inadvertently slowing Liverpool’s tempo. Meanwhile, Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos controlled the midfield, cutting off passing lanes and limiting Liverpool’s ability to create clear-cut chances.

The Defensive Wall

Madrid’s defensive quartet, led by the ever-reliable Casemiro, was a fortress. Militao and Nacho were imperious in aerial duels, while Valverde’s energy and Mendy’s composure nullified Liverpool’s wide threats. Casemiro, the midfield enforcer, was the heartbeat of Madrid’s resistance. His perfectly timed tackles, including a memorable challenge on James Milner, set the tone for the night. The altercation that followed epitomized his combative spirit, with Zidane smiling in approval from the sidelines.

When Liverpool shifted to a 2-3-5 attacking shape, Madrid responded by narrowing their midfield. Kroos and Casemiro stayed compact, cutting off supply lines to Milner and Wijnaldum. The discipline of Madrid’s midfield trio ensured that Liverpool’s central thrusts were met with immediate resistance, forcing the Reds to rely on speculative crosses.

Courtois: The Last Line of Defence

Thibaut Courtois delivered a performance befitting the occasion. The Belgian goalkeeper was called into action early, denying Mohamed Salah and James Milner with world-class saves. His reflexes and command of the penalty area were instrumental in keeping Liverpool at bay. A crucial stop from Roberto Firmino in the second half and a late save against Salah in stoppage time cemented Courtois’s role as Madrid’s saviour on the night.

Zidane’s Tactical Brilliance

Zidane’s ability to adapt under pressure was on full display. Recognizing Liverpool’s vulnerabilities during transitions, he encouraged Vinícius Júnior to exploit the spaces left by their advanced full-backs. The Brazilian’s pace and directness posed a constant threat, stretching Liverpool’s defence and providing an outlet for Madrid during moments of pressure.

The decision to deploy Valverde at right-back, despite his inexperience in the role, proved inspired. The Uruguayan’s tireless work rate and defensive instincts were crucial in neutralizing Liverpool’s left-sided attacks. Zidane’s trust in his players, even those on the fringes, exemplified his leadership and tactical ingenuity.

Anchoring the Ship

On the 109th anniversary of the Titanic disaster, Real Madrid dropped anchor at Anfield, weathering Liverpool’s heavy-pressing storm with remarkable composure. Zidane has galvanized a squad that appeared fragile and fragmented just months ago. By instilling belief and fostering unity, he has transformed a team of doubters into a cohesive force capable of navigating the most treacherous waters.

Conclusion

Real Madrid’s performance at Anfield was a masterclass in tactical discipline and mental strength. Zidane’s strategic adjustments, combined with the heroics of Courtois, the resilience of the defence, and the dynamism of Vinícius, ensured that Los Blancos emerged unscathed. In a season riddled with challenges, this result stands as a testament to Zidane’s genius and Madrid’s indomitable spirit.

The road to Istanbul beckons, and with Zidane at the helm, Real Madrid is poised to script yet another chapter in their illustrious European history.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar