The Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is set to host a thrilling Supercoppa Italiana semi-final clash between Inter Milan and Atalanta BC on Thursday evening. This encounter between the reigning Serie A champions and the current league leaders promises to be a captivating affair, with both teams eyeing a spot in the final.
Inter Milan, the defending Supercoppa champions, enter the match in formidable form. The Nerazzurri have been on a remarkable run, securing five consecutive league victories while maintaining an impressive goal-scoring record. Their recent 3-0 triumph over Cagliari, featuring goals from Alessandro Bastoni, Lautaro Martinez, and Hakan Calhanoglu, exemplifies their current prowess.
Simone Inzaghi’s side has shown remarkable consistency over the past year, winning 27 out of 38 top-flight games and losing only twice. Their dominance extends to their head-to-head record against Atalanta, with Inter remaining unbeaten in their last 13 encounters, including a resounding 4-0 victory earlier this season.
Atalanta, under the astute guidance of Gian Piero Gasperini, have emerged as serious title contenders this season. They currently lead the Serie A standings, showcasing their remarkable progress and ambition. The Bergamo-based club finished 2024 on a high note, setting club records for wins (36) and goals scored (127) in a calendar year.
Despite ending their impressive 10-game winning streak with a 1-1 draw against Lazio, Atalanta remain unbeaten in their last 13 league matches. Their participation in this year’s Supercoppa marks a significant milestone for the club, reflecting their rise to the upper echelons of Italian football.
The match presents an intriguing tactical battle between Inzaghi’s well-oiled machine and Gasperini’s dynamic, attacking style. Inter’s experience in high-stakes matches and their recent dominance over Atalanta give them a slight edge. However, Atalanta’s remarkable form this season and their hunger for a first Supercoppa appearance make them dangerous opponents.
As the teams prepare to face off in the unfamiliar surroundings of Riyadh, fans can anticipate a closely contested affair. Inter’s pursuit of an unprecedented quadruple and Atalanta’s ambition to cement their status among Italy’s elite add extra spice to this encounter. With a place in the Supercoppa final at stake, both sides will be eager to start 2025 on a winning note in this prestigious competition.
Team News
Inter Milan will be without defenders Benjamin Pavard and Francesco Acerbi, both left behind in Milan due to injury concerns. However, Matteo Darmian has recovered from a knee injury and is available for selection. The Nerazzurri are likely to field a strong lineup, with the prolific partnership of Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez leading the attack.
Atalanta face their own injury challenges, missing former Inter wing-back Juan Cuadrado due to a thigh injury. Additionally, strikers Gianluca Scamacca and Mateo Retegui are unavailable for selection. Nevertheless, the potential return of Matteo Ruggeri could provide a boost to Gasperini’s options. In the absence of key strikers, 2024 African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman is expected to support Charles De Ketelaere in attack.
Expected Starting XIs
Inter: Sommer; Bisseck, De Vrij, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Martinez, Thuram
Atalanta: Carnesecchi; Kossounou, Hien, Kolasinac; Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Zappacosta; Samardzic, Lookman; De Ketelaere
Match Prediction
While Atalanta have proven particularly tough to beat in recent weeks, Inter’s experience and quality in high-pressure situations could prove decisive. Expect a tightly contested match with Inter Milan potentially edging out a narrow victory to progress to the Supercoppa final.
Prediction: Inter 2-0 Atalanta
