Inter Milan enters this game with mixed feelings. Despite a thrilling eight-goal Derby d’Italia against Juventus at San Siro, they were left frustrated, having led twice in the game only to see Juventus claw their way back.
Also Read: Serie A Live! Inter vs Juventus Players Rating (27th October, 2024)
This result allowed league leaders Napoli to extend their lead. Inzaghi’s side has only lost one of their last 12 matches, boasting an otherwise strong run, including a recent Champions League win over Young Boys.
However, they’re eager to capitalize on Wednesday’s opportunity to secure another win.
On the other hand, Empoli’s weekend was less dramatic. A 1-1 draw against Parma saw them leading until the final minutes, only to concede late. They even survived a last-minute penalty scare, with Ange-Yoan Bonny’s shot rebounding off the crossbar.
With only 13 goals scored in their season so far, Empoli struggles to find consistency. Head coach Roberto D’Aversa initially sparked hope with several wins, including a promising Coppa Italia run, but recent losses to Napoli and Lazio have tempered expectations.
Team News
Inter may rotate their lineup slightly, given their intense clash with Juventus. Midfielder Piotr Zielinski, who netted twice from penalties in his first Serie A start for Inter, is doubtful due to thigh strain.
Coach Inzaghi also faces uncertainty over Hakan Calhanoglu’s fitness, while wing-back Carlos Augusto and defender Francesco Acerbi remain sidelined. Simone Inzaghi could therefore start Yann Bisseck, Davide Frattesi, and Mehdi Taremi, giving his main squad a breather.
Empoli’s roster has been plagued by injuries, with Samuele Perisan, Tyronne Ebuehi, and Saba Sazonov sidelined. There’s also doubt around Inter loanee Sebastiano Esposito, who is battling a thigh injury.
Head coach D’Aversa might reshuffle his lineup, relying on forward Lorenzo Colombo and a combination of players who have shown resilience despite setbacks this season.
Possible Starting Lineups
- Empoli: Vasquez; Goglichidze, Ismajli, Viti; Gyasi, Anjorin, Grassi, Pezzella; Fazzini, Solbakken; Colombo.
- Inter Milan: Sommer; Bisseck, De Vrij, Bastoni; Darmian, Frattesi, Barella, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Thuram, Taremi.
Prediction
Empoli has struggled to deliver results at home this season, failing to score in four of their last home games. Inter Milan’s disappointment from the Juventus draw and their Scudetto defense position them as clear favorites.
