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Inter Milan vs AS Roma: Serie A Preview
Inter Milan's pursuit of a second consecutive Scudetto faces a critical test on Sunday when they host AS Roma at the Giuseppe Meazza. Now locked on 71 points at the top of the Serie A standings with Napoli, Inter can’t afford any slip-ups. Inter's recent form has been less than ideal, while Roma are enjoying a remarkable unbeaten run. This clash promises to be a pivotal moment in the title race.
by Ricardo
Recent Form & Head-to-Head
Inter Milan's recent performances have raised concerns. After a 13-match unbeaten streak, they have suffered back-to-back defeats: a last-minute loss to Bologna in Serie A and a 3-0 defeat to AC Milan in the Coppa Italia semi-final, exiting 4-1 on aggregate. These setbacks have left Simone Inzaghi's side vulnerable in the title race.
In contrast, AS Roma are experiencing a resurgence under interim coach Claudio Ranieri. The Giallorossi are unbeaten in their last 17 Serie A matches, with 12 wins and 5 draws, propelling them into Champions League contention. Their revival has been impressive, especially considering their position in mid-December.
Historically, Inter have had the upper hand in this fixture, winning three of their last four home games against Roma. However, Roma's current form makes this encounter unpredictable.
Player News
Inter Milan
- Injuries/Suspensions: Alessandro Bastoni and Henrikh Mkhitaryan are suspended for this match. Marcus Thuram is doubtful due to injury.
Returning Players: Denzel Dumfries and Piotr Zielinski have returned to training but may not be match-fit. - Expected Changes: With the Champions League semi-final against Barcelona approaching, Inzaghi might rotate his squad. Yann Sommer is expected to start in goal, with Hakan Calhanoglu replacing Kristjan Asllani in midfield. Up front, Lautaro Martínez is likely to lead the attack, with Joaquin Correa, Marko Arnautovic, and Mehdi Taremi as potential partners.
AS Roma
- Unavailable: Paulo Dybala is sidelined due to a left semitendinosus tendon injury. Victor Nelsson is also unavailable.
- Doubts: Stephan El Shaarawy is questionable after sustaining a muscle injury. Tammy Abraham is also doubtful due to a cruciate ligament injury.
- Expected Lineup: Roma are likely to maintain a settled lineup, with Artem Dovbyk leading the attack. Lorenzo Pellegrini has recovered from a shoulder injury and is expected to feature.
Stats Watch
- Inter Milan: The Nerazzurri have scored 65 goals this season, the highest in Serie A, averaging 2.4 goals per game. Defensively, they have conceded 23 goals, with 14 clean sheets. Marcus Thuram leads the team with 13 goals, while Yann Sommer has kept 24 clean sheets
- AS Roma: Roma have netted 44 goals, averaging 1.6 per game, and conceded 29. Artem Dovbyk is their top scorer with 10 goals. Stephan El Shaarawy has been pivotal in setting up goals, leading the team with 3 assists.
- Key Matchup: The battle between Inter's potent attack and Roma's resilient defense will be crucial. Inter's ability to break down Roma's defense, especially without Dybala, will be a key factor.
Conclusion
Inter Milan find themselves at a crossroads in their Scudetto defense. Recent defeats have cast doubt on their title aspirations, and with key players unavailable, they face a formidable Roma side in excellent form. For Roma, this match represents a chance to solidify their Champions League ambitions and continue their impressive unbeaten run.
With both teams desperate for points, fans can expect a high-stakes, intense encounter at the Giuseppe Meazza. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for the remainder of the Serie A season.