Inter Milan vs Torino Preview

Inter Milan finds itself hurled right back into the thick of action after a 2-2 draw with Hellas Verona on Thursday. The Nerazzurri hosts Torino on Monday, the first of seven remaining Serie A matches before the campaign draws to a close.

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Torino’s season has not been anything near what was expected. In August La Granata was in the last round of Europa League qualification, but fell short against Wolves. Now, though, Moreno Longo’s side is a bit too close to the relegation zone, in 15th place. A 3-1 victory over Brescia in its last outing has alleviated fears of Torino dropping into B, though.

La Granata’s biggest and only offensive threat is Andrea Belotti. The 26-year-old is quite effective, having scored in each of his last five games and 15 total this season. Torino sends in a hefty amount of crosses to the target man and it evidently pays off. Other than that Torino is a team of grit and determined defending, and lacks creativity in the final third. La Granata has scored the third lowest goals from open play in the league. Contrastly, set pieces account for 20% of Torino’s goal tally. A result in this match would be great for Torino, but it’s far enough out of relegation to not feel the desperation of lower placed teams.

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Inter, on the other hand, has an opportunity to regain 2nd place. With Lazio losing to Sassuolo, and Juventus holding Atalanta to a draw, a win for Inter would bring it level with Le Aquile in 2nd. It’s not going to be as simple as that, though. Since Serie A restarted, Inter has dropped 7 points in the last 15 minutes of games. More of that Monday would only increase the pressure on Conte’s side to end the season on a high note.

Predicted Starting XIs

Notes

• Lukaku is reportedly dealing with a slight injury, so it seems smart to rest him with such a packed schedule.
• There is some good news: Alessandro Bastoni and Danilo D’Ambrosio will be available from suspension.

Prediction: Inter Milan 2-1 Torino

Torino is a level or two below teams like Verona and Bologna, so Inter should be able to take the three points, even if the product on the field is less than superb again. There is one thing the Nerazzurri won’t be able to do, and that’s keep the in-form Belotti off the scoresheet. Forza Inter!