Inter Milan is gearing up for another thrilling Champions League encounter as they prepare to face Benfica at San Siro on matchday two.
Last season’s finalists, Inter Milan, had a challenging start against Real Sociedad, resulting in a draw, while Benfica faced an upset against Red Bull Salzburg.
Match Preview
Simone Inzaghi, the Inter Milan boss, faced criticism for lineup changes in their previous match, and he may revert to his tried-and-tested lineup against Benfica.
Keep an eye on Lautaro Martinez, who has been in exceptional form, netting crucial goals for the Nerazzurri.
In their recent Serie A victory over Salernitana, Martinez showcased his prowess by scoring four times after coming on in the second half.
Inzaghi hopes for a similar performance from Martinez as they aim to outclass the team they eliminated en route to last year’s continental success.
Inter Milan has shown formidable European form at San Siro, being undefeated in their last five matches, keeping four clean sheets.
However, Benfica managed to hold them to a 3-3 draw in the previous quarter-final clash.
Benfica, on the other hand, seeks redemption after a disappointing start in the Champions League, losing to Salzburg.
Despite the setback, they have garnered momentum with back-to-back league wins, instilling confidence for their upcoming clash against Inter Milan.
With Benfica currently lagging in Group D, this match holds immense importance for them.
A win would help them catch up and strengthen their position in the group.
However, it won’t be an easy feat considering Inter Milan’s solid performance in recent European encounters.
Inter Milan Champions League Form: Draw
Inter Milan Form (All Competitions): W, W, D, W, L, W
Benfica Champions League Form: Loss
Benfica Form (All Competitions): W, W, W, L, W, W
Team News
Inzaghi is likely to miss key players such as Davide Frattesi, Marko Arnautovic, Stefano Sensi, and Juan Cuadrado due to injuries.
Inter Milan could potentially start with Martinez and Marcus Thuram in the frontline, benefiting from their budding partnership.
On the defensive end, Antonio Silva’s absence due to suspension could be a concern for Benfica.
However, minimal changes are expected in Schmidt’s lineup, as Benfica faces no significant injury worries.
Possible Lineups
Inter Milan Possible Starting Lineup:
Sommer;
Pavard, De Vrij, Bastoni;
Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco;
Martinez, Thuram
Benfica Possible Starting Lineup:
Trubin;
Bah, Otamendi, Morato, Aursnes;
Kokcu, Neves;
Di Maria, Neres, Silva;
Musa
Prediction
Considering Inzaghi’s expertise in cup matches and Inter Milan’s impressive track record against Benfica, we predict a 3-1 victory for Inter.
The Nerazzurri are expected to extend their unbeaten streak against the Portuguese side.
