In a highly anticipated Champions League encounter, Inter Milan will host RB Leipzig at the iconic San Siro on Tuesday evening. The match presents a stark contrast in fortunes, with Inter enjoying an unbeaten run in the competition while Leipzig struggle to find their footing.
Inter Milan have been in impressive form, kicking off their campaign with a resilient 0-0 draw against Manchester City. They’ve since secured victories over Red Star Belgrade, Young Boys, and Arsenal, maintaining a perfect defensive record with no goals conceded. Another clean sheet would match Manchester United’s 2010 record of five consecutive shut-outs to start a Champions League campaign.
The Nerazzurri’s home form has been particularly formidable, with 11 unbeaten Champions League matches at San Siro. Their recent 5-0 thrashing of Hellas Verona in Serie A, featuring a Marcus Thuram brace, further underlines their attacking potency.
RB Leipzig, conversely, face a must-win situation after four consecutive defeats in the competition. Their struggles have extended to domestic play, with recent Bundesliga losses denting their previously strong form. The German side has shown a concerning tendency to squander leads, dropping nine points from winning positions in the Champions League alone.
Team News
Inter may be without captain Lautaro Martinez due to illness, potentially opening the door for Mehdi Taremi or Marko Arnautovic to partner Thuram up front. Hakan Calhanoglu is doubtful with a thigh injury, while Francesco Acerbi’s availability is uncertain.
Leipzig are grappling with several injuries, including key players Xavi Simons and David Raum. Christoph Baumgartner is expected to play a crucial role in attack alongside the in-form Benjamin Sesko and Lois Openda.
Expected Starting XIs
Inter : Sommer; Bisseck, De Vrij, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Asllani, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Thuram, Taremi
RB Leipzig: Gulacsi; Klostermann, Orban, Lukeba; Henrichs, Haidara, Seiwald, Nusa; Baumgartner; Openda, Sesko
Match Prediction
This first-ever meeting between the sides promises an intriguing tactical battle. While Inter’s defensive solidity will be tested by Leipzig’s pace and finishing ability, the Italian giants’ experience and home advantage make them favorites to secure another vital victory in their quest for Champions League glory.
Prediction: Inter Milan 2-1 RB Leipzig
