Inter Milan’s relentless pursuit of retaining their Serie A title continues on Sunday as they prepare to host Venezia at San Siro.
Also Read: Serie A Match Report! Empoli vs Inter Match Updates, News and Scores (30th October, 2024)
The reigning champions, hot off a victory over 10-man Empoli midweek, are keen to maintain their momentum after dropping points in their dramatic 4-4 clash against Juventus.
Match Preview
Inter displayed resilience by bouncing back swiftly after their exhilarating draw with Juventus, capitalizing on Empoli’s early numerical disadvantage. Davide Frattesi, often overlooked for starting opportunities, shined with a brace, while Lautaro Martinez sealed the 3-0 win.
This result marked Inter’s 11th away victory in 2024, showcasing their formidable road form and extending their unbeaten streak to seven matches. This run includes a crucial Champions League win against Young Boys, signaling their readiness for upcoming challenges, including a key face-off with Arsenal and a pivotal showdown with Napoli, now managed by former Inter coach Antonio Conte.
Holding second place in the league table and having suffered just one defeat in 13 matches this season, Simone Inzaghi’s squad aims to dispatch Venezia confidently. Despite a demanding schedule, their form suggests they are prepared to secure maximum points.
Venezia’s Fight for Survival
Venezia, on the other hand, head into this clash with renewed optimism after an incredible comeback against Udinese. Trailing 2-0, captain Joel Pohjanpalo sparked hope with a penalty before Hans Nicolussi Caviglia’s precise free-kick equalized.
Pohjanpalo then struck again from the spot, completing the dramatic turnaround. This win, only their second of the season, was much-needed for Eusebio Di Francesco’s side, who had struggled to find victories since their Serie B playoff success last season.
Despite this high, Venezia’s away record remains dismal. With just two points secured on the road and an average of over two goals conceded per game, their task against the champions looks daunting, especially after a 4-0 thrashing by AC Milan at San Siro in September.
Team News
Inter Milan could see the return of regulars Hakan Calhanoglu and Francesco Acerbi, though Inzaghi may opt to rest them with Arsenal looming midweek. Kristjan Asllani, cleared after knee concerns, and other backup options like Mehdi Taremi and Marko Arnautovic may see action if Lautaro Martinez or Marcus Thuram are rotated.
Venezia have fewer injury woes, with only Bjarki Bjarkason sidelined. Captain Joel Pohjanpalo, who has been their standout player, will spearhead their attack alongside Gianluca Busio, with former Inter player Gaetano Oristanio vying for a spot in the lineup.
Predicted Lineups
Inter Milan (possible XI): Sommer; Pavard, De Vrij, Bastoni; Dumfries, Frattesi, Zielinski, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Thuram, Taremi
Venezia (possible XI): Stankovic; Idzes, Svoboda, Haps; Zampano, Duncan, Nicolussi Caviglia, Ellertsson; Busio, Oristanio; Pohjanpalo
Match Outlook
While Inter’s defensive record at home has shown recent vulnerabilities—conceding eight goals in their last three home games—Venezia may manage to get on the scoresheet. Nonetheless, the reigning champions, even with potential rotations, possess the depth and quality to outclass the newly promoted visitors. Expect Inter to assert their dominance and claim three points as they keep the pressure on the top of the table.
