Cruz the man for Mancini

Great rival
As FC Internazionale Milano's third-choice forward, the Argentinian has had to battle both in matches and in training to show his worth at a club knee-deep in talent. That is because Cruz finds himself in a position few would envy. He must compete with Brazilian international Adriano and Nigeria's Obafemi Martins for a place in attack.

Double strike
But on a misty November night, with Inter a goal down to FC Porto at an empty San Siro and with Adriano clearly having an off day, Cruz answered the call. Replacing Adriano with more than an hour played, the 31-year-old equalised from the penalty spot before heading in a second goal to keep Inter top of Group H.

Clinical Cruz
It is a rescue job the former Feyenoord and Bologna FC favourite has performed with aplomb time and again, and with few complaints. Indeed, he is Inter's top scorer this term alongside Adriano, having registered five goals in nine Serie A appearances. In Europe he has been more clinical still, scoring the Matchday 1 winner at FC Artmedia before Wednesday evening's double against Porto, while Adriano's group-stage account remains unopened.

Adriano concern
The lack of sharpness and confidence displayed by the Brazilian during the first half clearly concerned Inter coach Roberto Mancini. Adriano's form has been a hot topic in the Italian press as he struggles to live up to his billing as the 'Emperor', which was earned by stellar contributions including the hat-trick that eliminated holders Porto in the Round of 16 last season.

Selection poser
Fortunately for Mancini, he can call on Cruz to step in and provide a wealth of experience. The veteran's European scoring record may not be as prolific as Adriano's, but he still has 12 goals in 31 games, and his latest contribution keeps him in Mancini's thoughts as Inter bid to reach the knockout rounds.

Modest reaction
Typically, though, the man of the moment downplayed his star turn. "We didn't deserve to lose so I was very happy with my goals," Cruz said. "I was in the right place at the right time. Forwards live for goals but we have to think about what's good for the team if we want to get results, and I think tonight we played well as a team."