Serie A Preview: Livorno v Inter

After two rounds of Jekyll and Hyde performances by Inter, the Nerazzurri ship look to go back on course against relegation threatened Livorno.

Everyone was hopeful that Inter would be able to get all three points midweek against Udinese after the heart wrenching, last minute loss to Atalanta last weekend. Instead, the first 45 minutes were lethargic and Inter nearly won in the waning minutes of the match. The Nerazzurri also had another penalty call waved off, much to the surprise of almost no one.

This round takes us to Livorno, which happens to be the landing place of many Inter-loaned players. At any given time, the Tuscan club can field up to FIVE Nerazzurri products, including Bardi (their number one keeper).

Inter are currently sitting in fifth and with a win, hope to close the gap on fourth placed Fiorentina to only one point.

THE VITALS

Date: Monday, March 31

Time: 21.00 CET / 3.00 pm ET / 12.00 pm PT

Venue: Stadio Armando Picchi

BATTLE DOSSIER

Inter Probable Formation: Handanovic; Ranocchia, Samuel, Juan Jesus; Jonathan, Guarin, Cambiasso, Hernanes, Nagatomo; Palacio, Icardi

Livorno Probable Formation: Bardi; Castellini, Ceccherini, Valentini, Gemiti; Mbaye, Greco, Benassi, Biagianti, Betanin, Belfodil

Operation Wake Up: After a lackadaisical match against Udinese (save for the last ten minutes), the Nerazzurri need to go into the Tuscan side’s house and play like everyone has had their Wheaties.

Enemy of the State: All of the Inter products on display at Livorno. The Inter young’uns will have something to prove and facilitate moves back to the Big Club.

Fear Factor: 3. The earthquakes that have been rocking and rolling Southern California register higher on the Richter Scale than their Fear Factor.

Medal of Honor: I’m giving it to Andrea Ranocchia, who has stepped up in defense over the last month. He has been in the right time and place, with many vital interceptions. After a rocky period, it looks like the Frog has found a steady lily pad to chill on.

If Inter Win: I will not do anything special because this is a game that we’re supposed to win.

If Livorno Win: I will take solace in the fact that baseball season is underway.

Likely Outcome: This *should* be easy. 2-0 to the good guys.