Just four days after their surprising encounter in Florence, Inter Milan and Fiorentina are set to face off again in a highly anticipated Serie A clash at the San Siro on Monday evening. This match carries significant implications for both teams’ ambitions this season.
Inter Milan, the reigning Italian champions, suffered only their second league defeat of the season at the Stadio Franchi on Thursday. The 3-0 loss to Fiorentina was a shock to Simone Inzaghi’s side, who had been on an impressive run of form. Prior to this setback, Inter had secured their place in the Champions League knockout stages and dramatically salvaged a draw in the Milan derby.
Fiorentina, on the other hand, are riding high after their emphatic victory over Inter. This win followed another notable result against Lazio, where they triumphed despite playing with 10 men for much of the second half. Under the guidance of Raffaele Palladino, the Viola have amassed 42 points – their highest tally at this stage of the season in nine years.
For Inter, this rematch presents an opportunity to quickly bounce back and keep pace in a tightening Scudetto race. They currently sit three points behind league leaders Napoli, albeit with a game in hand. A win would not only close this gap but also reassert their title credentials after the recent stumble.
Fiorentina, while not in the title race, have their sights set on European qualification. They’re in a fierce battle for the top five spots, which could potentially secure Champions League football depending on Italian teams’ performances in UEFA competitions.
For Inter, much will depend on the form of Hakan Calhanoglu in midfield. His ability to dictate play and provide service to the forwards could be crucial. Up front, Thuram will be eager to add to his impressive goal tally against a team he’s scored against before.
Fiorentina’s Moise Kean comes into this match in red-hot form after his brace on Thursday. His battle with Inter’s defence, particularly Stefan de Vrij, could be pivotal to the outcome.
Inter Milan boast an impressive home record, having lost only two of their last 30 Serie A games at San Siro. This, combined with their desire for revenge and the need to keep pace in the title race, makes them slight favourites.
However, Fiorentina’s confidence will be sky-high after their recent performances. They’ll be aiming to do the double over Inter for the first time since 2016, a feat that would further cement their status as serious contenders for European qualification.
Team News
Inter Milan may see some changes to their lineup, partly due to necessity and partly in response to Thursday’s defeat. Denzel Dumfries is suspended, which could pave the way for new loan signing Nicola Zalewski to make his first start. The prolific attacking duo of Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram is expected to lead the line once again.
Fiorentina have been boosted by the availability of their January signings for this fixture, unlike in Thursday’s match where they were ineligible. Michael Folorunsho, Cher Ndour, Nicolo Fagioli, and Nicolo Zaniolo are all in contention. However, they will be without the suspended Pietro Comuzzo and the ill Albert Gudmundsson.
Tactically, it will be interesting to see if Palladino sticks with the unconventional setup that worked so well in Florence, where he effectively deployed four fullbacks. Inter, meanwhile, will be looking to dominate possession and create chances for their potent frontline.
Expected Starting XIs
Inter: Sommer; Pavard, De Vrij, Bastoni; Darmian, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Martinez, Thuram
Fiorentina: De Gea; Dodo, Pongracic, Ranieri, Gosens; Adli, Mandragora; Colpani, Beltran, Folorunsho; Kean
Match Prediction
Given Inter’s home strength and the motivation of both teams, we can expect an intense, closely fought match. While Inter may edge it due to their quality and home advantage, Fiorentina have shown they’re more than capable of causing an upset.
Prediction: Inter 2-1 Fiorentina
