Writing for Gazzetta dello Sport, former coach Fabio Capello has shared his thoughts on the upcoming Supercoppa Italiana final between Inter and Milan, offering insights into the tactical approaches of both teams and highlighting key factors that could determine the outcome.
Capello acknowledges the emotional intensity of the derby, especially with a trophy at stake, making predictions challenging. However, he believes Inter’s performance against Atalanta in the semi-final puts them a level above other Italian teams, including Milan.
“I believe this is the best version of Inter since Simone Inzaghi took over as coach,” Capello states. He notes that Inzaghi’s own words after the Atalanta match, “The players have exceeded all expectations,” confirm this assessment.
The absence of Thuram could be felt by Inter, increasing the pressure on Lautaro Martinez. Capello observes, “The captain wasted numerous chances against Atalanta, as we all saw, but in terms of overall performance, he did his job as always. I keep saying that as long as a striker gets chances, there’s no need to worry.”
Capello highlights the threat posed by Inter’s wide players, Dumfries and Dimarco, saying, “Did you see the work on the flanks by Dumfries and Dimarco in the semi-final? Problems for opponents can come from there too, as well as from midfield insertions or long-range shots from Calhanoglu and company.”
However, Capello believes the real key to the final could be Inter’s pressing. “Against Atalanta, it was determined, almost fierce. While Milan struggled a lot with Juventus’ pressure in the first half. If Inter replicates their work without the ball from the semi-final, life becomes complicated for the Rossoneri.”
Regarding Milan’s approach, Capello sees Conceiçao’s team as still in an “experimental” phase due to his recent arrival. He suggests Musah could be the key to changing the team, expecting him to start over Bennacer, who doesn’t seem 100% fit yet. Leao is anticipated to start on the bench but could be a crucial weapon to introduce during the match.
Capello emphasizes the unpredictable nature of derbies, noting that Milan’s comeback victory against Juventus in Conceiçao’s first match has provided a significant confidence boost. He states, “For Conceiçao, this will be a further test. To try to win over his players quickly, but also to learn to know them fast. Training sessions are fundamental, but the match tells you even more about the players at your disposal.”
In contrast, Capello points out that Inzaghi has many more certainties with Inter, describing the team as mature, well-oiled, and perfectly organized. He notes that Inter has improved, especially physically, since their league derby loss earlier in the season.
