While Serie A remains one of Europe’s big five leagues, its perception and standards somewhat have changed markedly since its halcyon days in the 1990s.
Back then, Serie A was widely considered to be the toughest and best in the world, renowned for its defensive prowess, tactical understanding and technical ability. In some respects, the current Inter side are a throwback to this era, especially when you consider their defensive organisation and positional awareness.
Of course, you can use the promo codes for Melbet to back Inter to win another Scudetto in 2024/25, as they remain tough to break down, well organised and determined to win.
But as we cast our minds back, who were the best defensive Serie A sides of the 90s? Here’s some insight into the teams that made the Italian top flight such a challenge for players.
Milan’s Iconic (and Record Breaking) Defence
AC Milan were a true powerhouse in the late 1980s and early 90s, with the 1993/94 campaign seeing them claim a Serie A and European Cup double.
Intriguingly, Milan were able to win the Scudetto in 1994 despite scoring just 36 goals in 34 games. This was due to their formidable back four, which conceded a paltry 15 goals in the matches and kept 22 clean sheets. They didn’t concede in their first seven league games, before Igor Kolyvanov scored for Foggia to secure a 1-1 draw.
The centre-back pairing of Franco Baresi and Alessandro Costacurta dominated for Milan, with the seasoned Filippo Galli providing exceptional cover when needed. Mauro Tassotti was a staple at right back, while the legendary Paolo Maldini was virtually immovable on the left of the defence.
A young Christian Panucci deputised in both full back positions during the season, while manager Fabio Capello provided exceptional defensive and tactical organisation. Milan’s season culminated with a 4-0 thrashing of Barcelona in the European Cup final, further highlighting their dominance and the quality of Serie A at the time.
Parma’s Defence of the Late 90s
Juventus took the mantle from Milan during the late 90s, with their legendary back four of Paolo Montero, Sergio Porrini, Ciro Ferrara and Gianluca Pessotto securing the UCL in 1996 and the Serie A title in 1996/97 (while conceding just 24 goals).
Interestingly, Parma finished second that season having conceded just 26 goals, while their defence became even more efficient and impressive in the 1998/99 campaign.
During this season, Lilian Thuram was robust and consistent at right back, while Roberto Sensini and a young Fabio Cannavaro (who won the Ballon d’OR in 2006) provided security in the centre of defence.
Antonio Benarrivo was also tough and streetwise, with the team’s defence crucial to Parma’s UEFA Cup win in 1999. Often, Parma would deploy a back three of Thuram, Sensini and Cannavaro, with this almost impenetrable against even high quality attacks.
Nowadays, Serie A is far more open, while the best players and defenders often make their way to Spain and England. Still, it’s worth remembering Serie A’s halcyon days, and some of the defensive units that plied their trade here during the 90s.