Serpents of Madonnina - Inter Milan vs. Juventus, Saturday, Dec. 9, 2-17 2:45 p.m. (ET)An Inter Milan community.2017-12-10T01:30:02+01:00http://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/rss/stream/165095392017-12-10T01:30:02+01:002017-12-10T01:30:02+01:00Five Takeaways from Inter’s 0-0 draw against Juventus
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/eokKnXMJ-CKehCXdzJHHFuTRuAM=/0x0:2996x1997/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57921169/889034858.jpg.1512863178.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p> What we learned from Inter’s Derby D’Italia stalemate.</p> <p id="zuU0Ct"><a href="https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/">Inter Milan</a> took one point from perhaps the most difficult fixture in all of Italian football on Saturday. No, the performance wasn’t stellar, but keeping a clean sheet against <a href="https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/">Juventus</a> at the Allianz Stadium is never a poor result. </p>
<p id="Xd4HJU">Here are takeaways from the goalless Derby D’Italia draw:</p>
<h3 id="D2nEwg"><strong>A disappointing performance, but a positive result</strong></h3>
<p id="qHSYFJ">Inter may not have played that well on Saturday, and the team certainly struggled to create chances, but it’s important to keep this match in context. The <em>Nerazzurri</em> were facing an objectively superior Juventus team that’s won the <em>Scudetto</em> seven years in a row, in one of Europe’s most difficult grounds for opponents to play in.</p>
<p id="K1fm1i">This is Juve’s eighth season at the Allianz Stadium, and since it opened in 2011, they’ve lost just four Serie A matches at home. With one of those losses already occurring this season (thanks, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/serie-a/teams/lazio">Lazio</a>!), any opponent, including Inter, taking all three points from this fixture would’ve been a surprise. </p>
<p id="4IkarJ">No, this season’s iteration of Juventus may not seem as ruthless as the teams in recent years, but they’re still unquestionably one of the best sides in Europe. Let’s not forget, Juve nearly won the treble in 2016/17, while Inter finished seventh. Despite a somewhat disappointing performance, especially in attack, Inter taking anything from this match is a positive result. Saturday’s result was a point won, not two points lost.</p>
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<h3 id="kiSXEy"><strong>You can’t win if you don’t score, and you can’t score if you don’t shoot</strong></h3>
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/eMPKrP1Bfy6SuOUsH8Uz8RMYPoc=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841433/889004258.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>It was a relatively quiet day from Inter’s captain and talisman.</figcaption>
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<p id="NBREQV">As mentioned above, there’s no question Inter struggled to create chances on Saturday. The <em>Nerazzurri’s</em> first shot didn’t come until the 52<sup>nd</sup> minute and they only mustered six attempts on the night, with just one on target. </p>
<p id="XcYG66">Simply put, that’s not good enough. You’re not going to win against one of the league’s best teams with only one shot on target.</p>
<p id="tchJ8w">While it was by no means exclusively his fault, <span>Mauro Icardi</span> received virtually no service on Saturday, and was almost invisible as a result. With Perisic having to drop back to help provide cover against Cuadrado (more on that below) and Candreva closely marked by either Asamoah or Matuidi, it became clear early in the first half that it would be a difficult night for Inter’s attack. Thankfully, the defense did enough to frustrate Juventus too, and a lackluster attack didn’t prove fatal to Inter on the night.</p>
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<h3 id="F2mBW9"><strong>Inter’s fullbacks were overmatched</strong></h3>
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/gHX3FvFIB8b0tpb4lQZEF4dcA40=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841475/889004144.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Juan Cuadrado was a nuisance for Inter on the right wing all match long.</figcaption>
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<p id="zxnilh">Perhaps the most glaring discrepancy on display in Saturday’s match was the gulf in class between Juve’s wingers and Inter’s fullbacks. This is not a slight on the overall performances we’ve seen from <span>Davide Santon</span> and <span>Danilo D'Ambrosio</span> this season; they’ve been mostly excellent, but there’s no question the Italian fullback duo were second best in their match-ups on the wings against Juve. </p>
<p id="GN6VZR"> <span>Juan Cuadrado</span> particularly gave Inter fits on Saturday. Santon struggled to cover the Colombian all match long, which resulted in Perisic having to drop back and defend more than we would’ve liked to have seen... Dalbert wasn’t able to do much better in his near half hour of action, either.</p>
<p id="ML8FXr">On the right, Mario Mandzukic’s height advantage over D’Ambrosio was nearly a match-winning difference for Juve, as their best chance came in the 44<sup>th</sup> minute, when the Croatian got on the end of a Cuadrado cross and headed the shot off of Inter’s crossbar. </p>
<p id="boiuP4">Inter committed 21 fouls in the match with a whopping 11 coming against either Cuadrado or Mandzukic. Juventus’ wingers were dangerous all game, and that’s something that Luciano Spalletti will need to keep in mind when the <em>Bianconeri </em>make the return trip to the San Siro in late April.</p>
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<h3 id="RTNjFk"><strong>A seemingly vulnerable Juve</strong></h3>
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<cite>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Inter’s defense was able to hold Gonzalo Higuain and the potent Juve attack.</figcaption>
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<p id="ac72CF">Saturday’s Derby D’Italia draw means that Juventus have already failed to win at home twice this season. Couple that with a loss to <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/serie-a/teams/sampdoria">Sampdoria</a> and a draw to <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/serie-a/teams/atalanta">Atalanta</a>, and Juve seem to lack the killer instinct we’ve seen in recent seasons.</p>
<p id="EkxAYS">Now it’s dangerous to get too ahead of ourselves here. Of course, Juventus started out poorly in 2015/16, only to storm back into the title race with a 15-match winning streak, and clinching the <em>Scudetto</em> with a second 10-match streak in the second half of the season. There’s obviously a lot of football to be played, but I can’t help but feel Saturday’s match would’ve been one that the Juventus of recent years would’ve found a way to win. </p>
<p id="z79wRc">While we can certainly debate if Inter should truly be viewed as contenders, there seems to be a legitimate title race on the cards this season. I still think Juve are the favorites, but something doesn’t quiet seem right with the Old Lady... Could the reign of terror finally come to an end in May? We’ll see, but there’s a much better chance of it happening this season than there has been in years past.</p>
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<h3 id="1Bc6A2"><strong>Most importantly, Inter remain unbeaten and their three most difficult fixtures are in the books</strong></h3>
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MZuj2djWfJ3cvj6GrD-fvgi7-2c=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841483/889004246.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>16 matches into the Serie A season, Mauro Icardi and his Inter teammates are still undefeated.</figcaption>
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<p id="xKwk9B">Despite all of what’s said above this… the only thing that really matters from Saturday’s match is that Inter remained undefeated on the season. The fact that we’re now 16 matches into the Serie A campaign and Inter have yet to lose is beyond the wildest dreams of most supporters.</p>
<p id="Bt6tYA">It’s also worth noting that Inter’s unbeaten run includes arguably the three most difficult fixtures in Italian football; Juventus, <a href="https://www.thesirenssong.com/">Napoli</a>, and <a href="https://www.chiesaditotti.com/">AS Roma</a> away. Not only have Inter taken five points from those three matches, but they’ve also conceded just one goal… That’s simply phenomenal given how disappointing and mentally fragile the club have been in recent seasons.</p>
<p id="6ws06r">As fans, we may not be thrilled with the performance Inter showed against Juventus in Saturday’s Derby D’Italia — Luciano Spalletti most certainly won’t be — but at the end of the day, Inter remain undefeated well into December. That’s more than every other team in <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/teams/italy">Italy</a> can say.</p>
<p class="c-end-para" id="HrFfQ2"><em>Forza</em><em> Inter</em>!</p>
https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/2017/12/10/16756990/five-takeaways-from-inters-0-0-draw-against-juventusTim Kraus2017-12-10T01:00:01+01:002017-12-10T01:00:01+01:00Player Ratings: Inter 0-0 Juventus
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<figcaption>Head coach Luciano Spalletti of Internazsionale looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus and FC Internazionale at Allianz Stadium on December 9, 2017 in Turin, Italy. | Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p><em>Nerazzurri</em> maintain a clean sheet in Turin.</p> <p class="p--has-dropcap" id="NM5dew">No doubt Luciano Spalletti will take the point at the Allianz Stadium as <a href="https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/">Inter Milan</a> drew 0-0 with <a href="https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/">Juventus</a> in the first half of the Derby d’Italia Saturday. The win keeps Inter’s streak of games without a loss at 18 going back to last season. </p>
<p id="brE57C">Here’s a look at our player ratings for what could be considered an ugly game for the <em>Nerazzurri</em>, but one where they escape with a point.</p>
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<h3 id="rlSeni">Samir Handanovic: 8.5</h3>
<p id="L6f0M2">Handanovic picked up where he left off against Chievo, making brilliant saves against Juventus’ offense that kept Inter on its heels for most of the game. Handanovic had eight saves including a strong attempt by Mario Mandzukic. Handa proved why he remains the best shot-stopper in Serie A.</p>
<p id="SP1E5R"> </p>
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<img alt="FC Internazionale v AC Chievo Verona - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/XWeXl3oTOcXESaZoEjIPfBLmRoY=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841321/884882324.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images</cite>
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<h3 id="tZjhSD">Milan Skriniar: 7</h3>
<p id="E8xoMY">One of the best pickups during the summer transfer season continued to impress, going toe-to-toe with Mandzukic and even moving forward to apply some pressure on Juventus’ defense. </p>
<p id="xDMnRD"> </p>
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/WNYoOEJRXOQZjKJSl_qMgHeiwAg=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841325/888984200.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Joao Miranda (L) of Internazionale and Gonzalo Higuain of Juventus compete for the ball during the Serie A match between Juventus and FC Internazionale at Allianz Stadium on December 9, 2017 in Turin, Italy.</figcaption>
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<h3 id="gf7okQ">Joao Miranda: 7</h3>
<p id="rz81yD">While he’s been pretty quiet most of the season, the Brazilian defender anchored the Inter defense that halted the continuous pressure applied by the Old Lady throughout.</p>
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/bQ34wQ_kuMvTcXLJxF6za5PiGhk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841327/889004858.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Mario Mandzukic (L) of Juventus and Danilo D'ambrosio of Internazionale fight during the Serie A match between Juventus and FC Internazionale on December 9, 2017 in Turin, Italy.</figcaption>
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<h3 id="PcgHuy">
<span>Danilo D’Ambrosio</span>: 6.5</h3>
<p id="CGKGFs">Despite the yellow card — of which were handed out like candy against the <em>Nerazzurri</em> today — D’Ambrosio held down the right side and was able to contain <span>Kwadwo Asamoah</span>, at least in the first half.</p>
<p id="QEDz63"> </p>
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/PE658YSGISuoD9WeoRwEy5Eyi_s=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841329/889004144.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Juan Cuadrado (L) of Juventus and Davide Santon of Internazionale compete for the ball during the Serie A match between Juventus and FC Internazionale at Allianz Stadium on December 9, 2017 in Turin, Italy.</figcaption>
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<h3 id="MmAVqN">
<span>Davide Santon</span>: 6</h3>
<p id="pOTnuP">Santon was able to start things on the left, but had little to no help. Had issues with passing — but then again so did Inter’s entire midlfield. Was forced out with an injury midway through the second half.</p>
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/0124UI-o3vGXHvJKuPnknNDoRHg=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841331/889004264.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Borja Valero of Internazionale in action during the Serie A match between Juventus and FC Internazionale at Allianz Stadium on December 9, 2017 in Turin, Italy.</figcaption>
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<h3 id="AYuFfN">
<span>Borja Valero</span>: 7</h3>
<p id="PTtbDA">Let’s be honest, for most of the game, our midfield looked abysmal. This is not necessarily attributed to Valero who actually had a 96% passing success rate. But, most of his passes resulted in little in terms of starting plays.</p>
<h3 id="2Urc1Y"> </h3>
<h3 id="TZrT1V">Matias Vecino: 6.5</h3>
<p id="qxUTrI">This may be a little harsh of a rating, but I think Vecino’s aggressive style of play is going to be the bane of Spalletti’s existence. It is going to happen at the wrong time in a game and we are going to pay for it in a big way. He has to improve his marking and his 84% passing is not going to get it down in the midfield.</p>
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<h3 id="yBxtqf">
<span>Antonio Candreva</span>: 6.5</h3>
<p id="fG7Cvk">Candreva struggled against Juventus’ pressure, giving the ball away directly twice. Still had a better passing percentage (91%) than Vecino, but both have to be better … much better.</p>
<p id="SCGrl6"> </p>
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/a0q3DtRZWzBTFCfsEzioVJsjSos=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841339/889016978.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Juan Cuadrado (L) of Juventus and Ivan Perisic of Internazionale compete for the ball during the Serie A match between Juventus and FC Internazionale on December 9, 2017 in Turin, Italy.</figcaption>
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<h3 id="8V7wK7">Ivan Perisic: 6.5</h3>
<p id="dKRWxq">Again, this could be a little harsh, but Perisic was nowhere to be found for the first half and limited in the second. I’m not sure if that is because Juventus knew how to play him, or if Perisic was not creative enough to get space. No crosses from Perisic means little play in the box for Inter.</p>
<p id="yScpev"> </p>
<h3 id="hyfdc4">Marcelo Brozovic: 6.75</h3>
<p id="IDWFB1">I tick Brozovic a little higher than Perisic and Candreva only because he seemed to have the best shot at goal in the second half. Otherwise, it was still pretty lackluster from the entire midfield from Inter.</p>
<p id="Z5BVvU"></p>
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/H1YP7N_aVPm4tQ0bDus2HM947jg=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841341/889004258.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Mauro Icardi of Internazionale in action during the Serie A match between Juventus and FC Internazionale at Allianz Stadium on December 9, 2017 in Turin, Italy.</figcaption>
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<h3 id="mjJmLv">
<span>Mauro Icardi</span>: 6.75</h3>
<p id="ZLq1oS">I’m not sure you can lay a lot of blame for a lack of offense on the feet of Icardi simply because he had very few … and I mean very few … chances at goal. In fact, he had just one shot on goal, which is very uncharacteristic.</p>
<p id="kFin65"> </p>
<h2 id="vwkMiR">Substitutes:</h2>
<h3 id="m63t76">Dalbert: 7</h3>
<p id="mHoiWI">The Brazilian came on after Santon fell injured in the second half. He seemed to be very active on the right and even seemed to frustrate <span>Juan Cuadrado</span>, dispossessing him four times in the short time on the field.</p>
<p id="kdhOMQ"> </p>
<h3 id="KYFQk8">
<span>Roberto Gagliardini</span>: 6.5</h3>
<p id="M51h3K">Gagliardini came in for Candreva late in the game, but still showed a lot of fire coming off the bench.</p>
<p id="4QosrM"> </p>
<h3 id="T4abHu">Éder: 6.5</h3>
<p id="qyLLdX">I only rate this because to not rate would be to ignore the fact that Éder came on for Icardi late in the game with the result still not settled. That was a bit of a surprise, but it yielded nothing negative … or nothing positive.</p>
<p id="mCtZTP"> </p>
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/AY93ncoM9D6kiiVVKpvLLt1t_wM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841345/889028732.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Head coach Luciano Spalletti of Internazionale issuues instructions during the Serie A match between Juventus and FC Internazionale at Allianz Stadium on December 9, 2017 in Turin, Italy.</figcaption>
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<h3 id="HP3Q0E">Luciano Spalletti: 7</h3>
<p id="8HMwSJ">At the end of the day, Spalletti and the <em>Nerazzurri</em> have to be happy coming out of Turin with a point, especially when you consider just how much Juventus pressured most of the game. Still, the substitution of Icardi for Éder late in the game was a bit surprising. Perhaps he was hoping the fresh legs would be a difference-maker. Alas, they weren’t. That all said, Spalletti was able to keep his defense in the game and that proved to be the difference in the tie.</p>
<p id="SpPmiU"> </p>
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<img alt="Cagliari Calcio v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-UcVfMyknxIkn69MrJuUzU1jHeA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841351/879139494.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images</cite>
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<h3 id="OeIK0b">MotM: Handanovic</h3>
<p class="c-end-para" id="VlUzMP">It is hard to not rate the Slovenian as the Man of the Match here. He is the best keeper in the league and showed it with some spectacular saves against a very dangerous Juventus offense. Take this into consideration: He has allowed just three goals in the last six games and just eight goals in the last 10.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="Ya96Fq">
<p id="EuXFvF">How would you rate Inter’s players? Who’s your man of the match? Leave a comment below.</p>
https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/2017/12/10/16756906/player-ratings-inter-0-0-juventusM.A. Clark2017-12-10T00:35:37+01:002017-12-10T00:35:37+01:00Recap: Inter hold off Juventus
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<img alt="Juventus v FC Internazionale - Serie A" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/eBi36JhHFeRVxz1RTNqj8lGm6H8=/2x0:2998x1997/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57921101/889028726.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Inter reach 40-point threshold in the Serie A standings</p> <p id="plFV4f">The 169th Derby d’Italia finished in a 0-0 draw, keeping the <em>Nerazzurri</em> at the top of the Serie A table.</p>
<p id="eKbkaQ">Gianluigi Buffon was injured for this contest which left Wojciech Szczesny in between the pipes for Juve. Massimiliano Allegri decided to leave star player Paulo Dybala on the bench for the first half. It didn’t matter, however, as Juventus still tested Samir Handanovic with 19 total shots, as Inter proved to be quite volatile throughout the fixture.</p>
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<img alt="SSC Napoli v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Mvxe3FzPHRPZkXhjNupRnZgAnR0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9841485/865699402.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="SNnPG1">Mario Mandzukic tested Handanovic in the first frame. Mandzukic’s first shot rang off the bar, and his second chance came off of a volley that was turned away by the 33-year-old Inter keeper. Miranda did a good job on defense today after serving his one-match ban.</p>
<p id="L5gunt">Sami Khedira took a shot on Handanovic that was gathered calmly, but you could tell the whole morale of the team wasn’t as calm. Inter had 0 shots in the first 45 minutes.</p>
<p id="pxvOq7">Juventus created a high number of dangerous chances throughout the duration of the second half. The black and white ended up with 52 percent possession after the final whistle blew.</p>
<p id="dD8kvx">Juan Cuadrado sent a header towards Inter’s net that again had to be turned away by Handanovic. The Slovenian has been in sensational form since he signed his new three-and-a-half year deal.</p>
<p id="O4Nyhj">Dybala was substituted in later on in the fixture. The flow of play shifted even more in favor of Juve as they started coming at Internazionale in waves, but again the resilient play of the blue and black prevailed. </p>
<p id="1yuk5O">Inter managed only one shot on target in the whole game, but did hold Juventus off the score sheet for the first time since October 2016. Napoli still haven’t played their match against Fiorentina and they sit 2 points behind the <em>Nerazzurri</em> for first in the Serie A.</p>
<div id="dvCNOp"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G0J_w8nDgFk?rel=0&" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no"></iframe></div></div>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="7l33OR">
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https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/2017/12/10/16757012/recap-inter-hold-off-juventusNick McAdam2017-12-09T18:53:40+01:002017-12-09T18:53:40+01:00Juventus vs Inter: Match preview, how to watch and match thread
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<img alt="Juventus FC v FC Internazionale - Serie A" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Yqgd7xV03TSwzZ8VoED1IK0BxlE=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57919043/641156174.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="aTXjtp">At last, it’s time for the talking to stop and for the football to start: <a href="https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/"><em>Juventus</em></a><em> vs Inter is finally upon us!</em></p>
<p id="I4pgO2">For an extended preview of one of the most eagerly-anticipated Derby d’Italias in quite some time, I encourage you to check out the Serpents of Madonnina staff preview that was published on Friday afternoon by clicking <a href="https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/2017/12/8/16745690/juventus-vs-inter-som-staff-preview">here</a>. There you will find Tim, Sanat, Matt and myself’s answers to six questions that were on our minds heading into the match, and hopefully that will increase your levels of energy and optimism before the big kick-off. (Although three of us did predict a home win at the end.)</p>
<p id="Y08jvr">In addition to everything we’ve said there, though, there’s one more thing that’s worth saying as we wait for kick-off. </p>
<p id="nZf6zh">One of the things we discussed in the round-table preview was why we should be optimistic heading into this game, but there’s one thing we didn’t mention which was being analysed on TV.</p>
<p id="2j4mRs">So far this season there have been 7 matches played between Serie A’s top five, and 5 of those 7 matches have ended in away wins: Inter’s victory against Roma, Juventus’s win against <a href="https://www.thesirenssong.com/">Napoli</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/serie-a/teams/lazio">Lazio</a>’s win against Juventus and Napoli’s wins against Lazio and Roma. Napoli 0-0 Inter and Roma 2-1 Lazio have been the only exceptions to this rule in the first 15 games of the season.</p>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/53o3XnYTLBilx8ut56pqaH82oC0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9837663/SD.PNG">
<figcaption>Might this be a good omen for Inter on Saturday?</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="ZbOjXI">Is this a coincidence or does it reveal something more profound about the way all the big teams are playing this season? Does it suggest, for instance, that it’s becoming easier and easier to let your opponents control the match and hurt them on the counterattack?</p>
<p id="zgwmvi">Personally I think it’s a bit of a coincidence, because those 5 matches have all been fairly different in the way they’ve panned out. Nevertheless, that’s not a bad omen for us this evening is it?</p>
<p id="bTkTMf">If Inter are courageous and concentrated enough then winning in Turin is not Mission Impossible. Let’s hope Saturday 9 December 2017 another night to remember.</p>
<p class="c-end-para" id="OmolnS"><em>AMALA!</em></p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="UjDZ50">
<h2 id="YxtEyp">Match Info</h2>
<p id="IrOhVv"><strong>Date & Time</strong>: Saturday, December 9th, 2017; 8:45 PM CEST (2:45 PM on the U.S. East Coast)</p>
<p id="pxPiAA"><strong>Location</strong>: Allianz Stadium; Turin, Italy</p>
<p id="4BSlOv"><strong>TV/Streaming</strong>: In the U.S. the game will be shown on beIN Sports USA, with streaming available through beIN Sports Connect and fuboTV, while in the U.K. the match will be shown on BT Sport 3 HD, with streaming available through BT Sport Live. <a href="http://www.livesoccertv.com/match/2547568/juventus-vs-internazionale/"><strong>Click here</strong></a> to find out where you can watch the match everywhere else in the world.</p>
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<h2 id="1xofI2">Inter’s Matchday Squad</h2>
<p id="sMJoJe"><strong>Goalkeepers: </strong>Handanovic, Padelli, Berni</p>
<p id="5SOrLT"><strong>Defenders: </strong>Joao Cancelo, Ranocchia, Santon, D’Ambrosio, Nagatomo, Skriniar, Miranda, Dalbert</p>
<p id="Iv8qX8"><strong>Midfielders: </strong>Gagliardini, Joao Mario, Vecino, <span>Borja Valero</span>, Brozovic</p>
<p id="peouel"><strong>Forwards: </strong>Candreva, Karamoh, Icardi, Perisic, Eder, Pinamonti</p>
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<h2 id="s3Efea">Match Thread Rules</h2>
<p id="gdaudU">There are only three rules: don’t be hateful, don’t disrespect anyone else’s opinion and enjoy the game!</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="eQ8SN9">
<p id="neL0TG"><em>Want to contribute? Sign up for an SB Nation account and join the conversation on Serpents of Madonnina. Whether it is match coverage and analysis, breaking news, mercato or you just want to be immersed in all things Inter, we have it right here.</em></p>
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https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/2017/12/9/16752052/juventus-vs-inter-match-preview-how-to-watch-and-match-threadWill Beckman2017-12-08T20:45:02+01:002017-12-08T20:45:02+01:00Spalletti: Juventus a test of Inter’s progress
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<img alt="FC Internazionale v AC Chievo Verona - Serie A" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/rcCFv47U_T2AqhxOMlu_k2VVsM0=/113x0:2887x1849/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57906641/884841984.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>FC Internazionale Milano coach Luciano Spalletti looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Chievo Verona at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on December 3, 2017 in Milan, Italy. | Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Coach says Saturday will be a proving ground for <em>Nerazzurri</em>.</p> <p id="XCjlCg">If nothing else, Luciano Spalletti doesn’t mince words about.</p>
<p id="CHD86k">During his pre-match news conference Friday morning, <a href="https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/">Inter Milan</a>’s boss said plainly that Saturday’s Derby d’Italia battle with <a href="https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/">Juventus</a> in Turin would be a proving ground for his squad.</p>
<p id="dlFS0X">Inter are currently in first place in Serie A – a point clear of <a href="https://www.thesirenssong.com/">Napoli</a> and two ahead of the Old Lady – a spot they have not occupied since January 2016. The <em>Nerazzurri</em> have 18 more points today than they did this time a year ago following a 5-0 thrashing of Chievo last weekend.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Spalletti?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Spalletti</a>: "The team has trained well. We will try to do our best for us and also for those who care about Inter."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JuventusInter?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JuventusInter</a> <a href="https://t.co/2ZmFzPlhOa">pic.twitter.com/2ZmFzPlhOa</a></p>— Inter (@Inter_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Inter_en/status/939097196821086209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2017</a>
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<blockquote><p id="cBWXcS">"We know the obstacle that lies ahead of us," Spalletti said Friday. "Over the past few months we've worked on our identity, conviction and strength that we want to show out on the pitch.”</p></blockquote>
<p id="Uv0pDm">He added that Saturday’s match will be a barometer of whether the <em>Nerazzurri</em> can compete with top flight teams like Juventus. </p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"> | Just one day remaining until <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JuventusInter?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JuventusInter</a>: Are you ready for the 169th encounter? <br><br>Get all the stats that you need right here <a href="https://t.co/j1qwylVSVV">https://t.co/j1qwylVSVV</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCIM?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCIM</a> <a href="https://t.co/zxiPwhqwHZ">pic.twitter.com/zxiPwhqwHZ</a></p>— Inter (@Inter_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Inter_en/status/939110512784179201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2017</a>
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<p id="Y7KNCB">"This match is defined as the derby of Italy. It is a test that motivates you; however, we must remain calm.,” Spalletti said. “These lads have demonstrated they can transfer everything linked to Inter out onto the field.”</p>
<p class="c-end-para" id="IV5zMM">We have a precise identity which we work on. We have some objectives and we'll need to secure plenty of points to achieve them. Consequently, it's crucial for us to be aware of who we are."</p>
https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/2017/12/8/16751792/spalletti-juventus-a-test-of-inters-progressM.A. Clark2017-12-08T17:15:22+01:002017-12-08T17:15:22+01:00Juventus vs Inter: SoM staff preview
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<img alt="Juventus FC v FC Internazionale - Serie A" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/bQMhmUCyZB9SIlOcP1cKJMee3pc=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57905989/641155950.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>It’s almost time...</p> <p class="p--has-dropcap" id="iIqo2a">Just as we did for the Milan derby <a href="https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/2017/10/14/16462750/milan-derby-community-roundtable">back in October</a>, some of the staff here at <em>Serpents of Madonnina</em> have come together to pool their thoughts ahead of Saturday’s Derby d’Italia. Because big games deserve big billings, and <a href="https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/">Juventus</a> vs Inter this weekend most certainly is one of those. </p>
<p id="mbcgMs">Is this match really the Scudetto shootout that some sections of the press have been advertising it as? Why should we be confident that Luciano Spalletti’s men can pull off a victory at the Allianz Stadium? What will be the key to success on Saturday evening?</p>
<p id="4rrNUY">Find out what we have to say about those issues and more in our wild and (hopefully) wonderful community round-table preview below.</p>
<p id="VS0adE">Just one more thing before we get started - <em>FORZA INTER!</em></p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="R7rgco">
<p id="Bga2v8"><strong>The vast majority of the Italian press are presenting Saturday’s big match as a Scudetto showdown. Is that a fair portrayal of this game or just typical media hype?</strong></p>
<div class="c-float-right"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="FC Internazionale v AC Chievo Verona - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/G1q-hSk3yMhGkHA4ccatJSNyNj8=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9834367/884842074.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Inter could not be in better shape heading into this weekend’s match with Juventus.</figcaption>
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<p id="hPefO0"><strong>Will:</strong> Given that Inter are top of the league heading into this match (that feels cool to say doesn’t it?), it was inevitable that people would get carried away with Scudetto talk - and if you want that’s kind of their job. But I’m in agreement with both Spalletti and Milan Skriniar when they were asked this question last weekend: <strong>this is an important game</strong>, albeit worth three points like all the others, <strong>and nothing more</strong>.</p>
<p id="DuWy8U">If we were to beat Juventus on their own patch, or perhaps get a draw while playing very well, then at that point it really would become difficult to continue playing down our title chances, but for now I remain cautious on the matter. Despite our brilliant recent form I still think Juve and <a href="https://www.thesirenssong.com/">Napoli</a> are superior to us, and you could even say Roma are slightly ahead of us too. Our target for the season is Champions League qualification and nothing that happens between now and May will change that - although if we really did come home with three points this weekend...</p>
<p id="I6qt9w"><strong>Tim:</strong><strong> </strong> Listen, I work in public relations. So, I can certainly appreciate an attempt by the media to promote their content with an eye to attracting as many viewers as possible, but let’s not kid ourselves here.<strong> This match has very few Scudetto implications</strong>... Is the Derby d'Italia a huge fixture? Yes. Talent and form-wise are Inter closer to Juventus than they have been in a long time? Yes. But the outcome on Saturday isn’t likely to have a big impact on who lifts the trophy in May. It’s only early December, after all. The Scudetto isn’t won 16 games into the season. </p>
<p id="RSFwWr">Now, that said, there’s no doubt in my mind that this is an important game, and one that, if won by Inter, would be a tremendous confidence boost for the club and supporters alike. But, there’s still so much football to be played over the next five months.</p>
<div class="c-float-left"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="FC Internazionale v AC Chievo Verona - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/C4QGUaC6IdV6uAMPwlmAGtCeNSE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9834469/884882324.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Milan Skriniar has said that Juventus vs Inter is not a Scudetto showdown, and all four of us are in agreement. We always agree with anything Milan Skriniar says or does.</figcaption>
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<p id="M7JG3Z"><strong>Sanat:</strong> At this stage in the same with the number of games still to go, <strong>it is too early to call this a Scudetto showdown</strong>. There is just far too much football left to be played after this one. Even if Inter beats Juve, they could draw/lose against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/serie-a/teams/udinese">Udinese</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/serie-a/teams/sassuolo">Sassuolo</a> to make this result somewhat meaningless. However, the reverse fixture at the end of April could well be a Scudetto showdown if Inter and the Juve find themselves in a similar position.</p>
<p id="rP2O5T">Having said that, this game does present an excellent measuring stick - one that Spalletti and the team can use to compare themselves to the standard bearers are far as recent Serie A success goes. This team did very well and held their own against then league leaders Napoli, and it Saturday's game, more than anything, will tell us how far this team has come. </p>
<p id="9nuYpk"><strong>Matt:</strong> I think we need to temper Scudetto talk. <strong>It is WAY too early in the season to consider this a championship match</strong>. Granted, you have two of the most storied programs in Serie A facing off at a time when both are either at, or near, the top of the table, which is extremely exciting. However, we still have five more months of football and anything can happen. </p>
<p id="QK9zPz">While this game should be exciting to watch, it will be the return fixture in April that could prove to be the true Scudetto matchup.</p>
<p id="oO8sn1"><strong>What makes you optimistic heading into this match?</strong></p>
<p id="Me4pCW"><strong>Will:</strong> My biggest source of optimism 24 hours ahead of kick-off is <strong>the timing of this match</strong>. I don’t think anyone could deny that Juventus remain the superior team in absolute terms at the moment, but Saturday’s game arrives at the best moment possible for Inter and this should give us a decent chance of getting a result. Andrea Stramaccioni was asked earlier this week if he could see any similarities between this Inter side and the Inter side he guided to victory at the Juventus Stadium back in 2012, and he said the biggest similarity was the enthusiasm behind both teams on the eve of the game. <em>“We arrived at that match in a great run of form [eight straight wins in all competitions], and anyone who knows what life is like at Inter knows this gives you a big advantage. The greatest analogy between now and then is the enthusiasm which enables you to approach this match with peace of mind.”</em></p>
<p id="04hhre">Whichever way you look at it – physically, mentally or in terms of the league table – Inter are in their richest vein of form in at least two years (and perhaps even longer, depending on how you view what happened with Roberto Mancini two seasons ago), and that will enable us to play this match with calmness and confidence in equal measure. Let’s hope that’s enough to make the difference.</p>
<p id="HiRJ6p"><strong>Tim: </strong>I’m optimistic because <strong>Inter have responded to each and every challenge they’ve faced this season. </strong></p>
<p id="AbNkcp">Winning on the road against <a href="https://www.chiesaditotti.com/">AS Roma</a> in Spalletti’s first games back at the Stadio Olimpico? Check. Winning a hotly-contested derby match against a seemingly desperate <a href="https://acmilan.theoffside.com/">AC Milan</a> side? Check. Thoroughly dominating a match that would send the club top of the table for the first time since January 2016? Check.</p>
<div class="c-float-right"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="FC Internazionale v AC Chievo Verona - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/4minA5pdwTX-JcmA3z3gCvvUW00=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9834487/884762240.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Luciano Spalletti has turned Inter into a formidable outfit this season, in spite of a low-key summer transfer campaign.</figcaption>
</figure>
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<p id="vIFv5s">Be it Spalletti’s leadership, the newfound resilience of Inter’s players, or a magical combination of the two, there’s no denying that the <em>Nerazzurri</em> have risen to the occasion at every opportunity they’ve faced. Inter have been <a href="https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/2017/12/5/16735556/time-to-give-credit-where-credit-is-due">proving me wrong</a> all season long, so what reason should I have to doubt them now?</p>
<p id="30tomW"><strong>Sanat:</strong> Two reasons - The first is <strong>recent performances</strong> and not just three points. Inter have already shown this season that they can grind out results when they are not playing well (examples being games against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/serie-a/teams/crotone-serie-a">Crotone</a>, Benevento and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/serie-a/teams/genoa">Genoa</a>). However, in recent games the performances have caught up with our positive results. A team that's full of confidence and playing well always has a chance in a big match. The second reason is <strong>our performance against Napoli</strong> - we showed the ability to soak up pressure and hold our own against a very credible team and no reason why we cannot do that again. </p>
<p id="5XKWvO"><strong>Matt:</strong> My optimism rests with one person ... <strong>Luciano Spalletti</strong>. He has been the best pickup by the club in the summer transfer season. He has instilled a new sense of pride and even urgency with the club. That is something that was lacking in the last few seasons. </p>
<p id="fTeuze">The team has responded to his call with extremely impressive results. We talked about the disappointment some of us had because Inter had not made that splash signing in the summer. These results prove that you don’t need to drop copious amounts of cash to be successful.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Paolo Condò: “Spalletti has got 80% of Inter’s players playing like they’ve never played before in their careers”<br><br>difficult to disagree with that. ⚫️ </p>— Serpents of Madonnina (@SerpentsOfInter) <a href="https://twitter.com/SerpentsOfInter/status/938172314570690560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2017</a>
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<p id="mk7nxZ"><strong>What makes you pessimistic heading into this match?</strong></p>
<p id="zlDVMm"><strong>Will:</strong> <strong>Juventus’s big game experience</strong>. I have complete faith in this Inter side’s ability to go to Turin and hold their own with a solid performance, but more often than not that isn’t enough to get the better of this team, because they are the masters when it comes to head-to-head clashes like this. Gianluigi Buffon said after the Bianconeri’s victory last week against Napoli that ‘when it comes to the moment where you have to give something extra, we always manage to do it’, and he’s right, so I just can’t shake that nagging feeling that they’re going to edge us out. Their experience, knowhow and mental resilience in decisive matches is superior to ours and that could be enough to secure the three points for them on Saturday.</p>
<p id="Iw9FjP"><strong>Tim: </strong> The fact that <span>Leonardo Bonucci</span> is no longer with Juventus, resulting the lack of a “world-class” center back for <span>Mauro Icardi</span> to humiliate…</p>
<div class="c-float-left"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Juventus FC v FC Internazionale - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/a9o95wmR5xW5lSUFS9KvqPTD8YA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9834493/641156082.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Juventus ran out winners in last season’s fixture at the Allianz Stadium. Can Inter stop the <em>Bianconeri </em>this time round?</figcaption>
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<p id="dsIxQS">No, on a more-serious note, this is Juventus we’re playing. In <em>their</em> building. Since the J, Allianz, or whatever-we’re-supposed-to-call-it-now Stadium opened in 2011, Inter have only managed a win and a draw in the seven matches played there. While Juve’s home winning streak may be over, <strong>the Old Lady is still one of the best home teams in the world</strong>. As well as Inter have played this season, Juve are still the better side, if we’re being objective. This game is going to be extremely difficult for Inter, and admitting that is likely more a case of realism than pessimism. </p>
<p id="IL9a7K"><strong>Sanat:</strong> Juve is a little bit like a wounded animal right now and Inter presents them the perfect opportunity to show everyone in Serie A that they are still kings. I can expect them to <strong>raise their game for this one just to prove that point</strong> and that might be problematic for us. </p>
<p id="KkVMmD"><strong>Matt:</strong> I have to agree with Tim on this one. There is a lot to be said about <strong>home field advantage in Serie A</strong>. Juventus may be tired after Wednesday’s Champions League win and playing a bit on their back heel, but you can never underestimate the power of the 12th man and the Allianz Stadium will be rocking Saturday.</p>
<p id="m1scz1"><strong>What’s the one thing that Inter </strong><em><strong>must </strong></em><strong>do or get right in order to beat Juventus this weekend?</strong></p>
<p id="e3MJdD"><strong>Will: Be courageous</strong>. Spalletti said it himself during his press conference on Friday afternoon: <em>‘I could sense enormous satisfaction around the club after the draw against Napoli in October, so I spoke with the team immediately and reminded them it was a good result and nothing more. We could have been more daring that night, so I hope we are tomorrow.’ </em>This doesn’t mean we have to keep hold of the ball for 90 minutes and throw countless men forward every time we attack; it just means we shouldn’t always wait for Juve to make the first move.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">6⃣0⃣ seconds to listen again to what coach <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Spalletti?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Spalletti</a> had to say during his pre-match press conference for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JuventusInter?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JuventusInter</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCIM?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCIM</a> <a href="https://t.co/cdCaikwgCx">pic.twitter.com/cdCaikwgCx</a></p>— Inter (@Inter_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Inter_en/status/939143170251808768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2017</a>
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<p id="AFa9Iv">Take a risk occasionally, take the initiative when it’s right to do so – do what D’Ambrosio did to set up Icardi’s second goal against Atalanta, when he abandoned the man he was marking on the halfway line to sprint forward and nick the ball higher up the pitch. Otherwise we’ll spend the entire game covering off space inside our own half, which at most will earn us a 0-0 draw. And Inter wasn’t founded to chase 0-0 draws.</p>
<p id="016mrC"><strong>Tim: </strong><strong>Win the right side of the pitch.</strong></p>
<p id="6zGmFL">For reasons unbeknownst to me, Allegri has chosen to play <span>Kwadwo Asamoah</span> in many of Juventus’ big league matches this season. If the Ghanaian starts over <span>Alex Sandro</span> on Saturday, I think there’s a real opportunity for <span>Antonio Candreva</span> to shine. Along with Icardi, Candreva was a huge difference-maker for Inter in the Milan Derby, and the Italian winger always seems to be up for the big matches.</p>
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<img alt="FC Internazionale v AC Chievo Verona - Serie A" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/0oCaNc9r9bwKHGJ4MF7A4cDH0lY=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9834511/884882332.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Could Ivan Perisic’s endless energy reserves prove decisive in the latter stages of the game?</figcaption>
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<p id="XDBZk4">Few ties in Italian football are bigger than the Derby d’Italia, so I expect to see the best version of Candreva on Saturday. If he can play well, and D'Ambrosio does enough to neutralize Mario Mandzukic/Douglas Costa, I think there will be a real outlet for Inter on the right-wing. If that’s the case, the <em>Nerazzurri</em> are one good cross and an Icardi finish away from snatching the lead.</p>
<p id="mXfizJ"><strong>Sanat:</strong> Be sure to <strong>turn on the "after-burners" in the final 20 minutes</strong> to make the extra midweek game for Juve count for something. </p>
<p id="HDxN65"><strong>Matt:</strong> <strong>Dictate tempo</strong>. We need to come out of the gate with a little fire. If we don’t, Juventus can capitalize and a 1-0 early lead in Turin is a lot harder to overcome than a 1-0 lead somewhere else. The <em>Nerazzurri </em>also have to press the attack. Perisic, Icardi and Candreva have a good opportunity to keep the pressure on Juventus’ defense. Couple that with solid midfield play and control could also create a lot of havoc for the Old Lady.</p>
<p id="AvA0B4"><strong>What’s your favourite Derby d’Italia memory (preferably from an away game seeing as this one is in Turin)?</strong></p>
<p id="OQXUoT"><strong>Will:</strong> Without doubt it has to be the <strong>3-1 win at the Juventus Stadium in November 2012</strong>, under Andrea Stramaccioni. There’s surely not much in life that could ever beat what happened on that night: Inter ending Juventus’ 49-game unbeaten run, on their own patch, with a come-from-behind victory, including two goals from <span>Diego Milito</span>, after conceding a blatantly offside goal in the first minute. Footballing heaven.</p>
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<cite>Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>What a night that was back in 2012...</figcaption>
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<p id="9bqfUW">For some reason I’m also attached to the 1-1 draw we played out in January 2015, on the night when Dani Osvaldo punched <span>Roberto Mancini</span> in the dressing room at full-time (he confirmed this a week ago). But the Strama win definitely takes top spot.</p>
<p id="bLOAf2"><strong>Tim: </strong> I know this is super recent, but I have to go with <strong>last year’s win at the San Siro</strong>. After looking pretty horrendous in our first three matches of the Frank de Boer era, the 2-1 win was as shocking as it was enjoyable. It was the first, and perhaps only :(, time Inter looked like a real team under de Boer, and the win could’ve been the moment that jumpstarted our season. Unfortunately, that never happened, but it was still a great victory… And hey, if Ivan Perisic <a href="https://twitter.com/SerpentsOfInter/status/938021790806310917">thinks that winner was the greatest goal he’s scored</a> for Inter, who are we to disagree?</p>
<p id="eTxm7I"><strong>Sanat:</strong> I am with Will on this one - the <strong>3-1 win to end Juve's 49-game unbeaten run</strong> and their first defeat in the new stadium. How very pleasing that it had to be Inter to do that!</p>
<p id="ip32Jo"><strong>Matt:</strong> Not to be a bandwagoner, but Will nailed this one right on the head. <strong>The 2012 road win </strong>was spectacular, especially the manner of which it happened. </p>
<p id="wk7X7L"><em>(There is only one happy away memory in recent years, in fairness...)</em></p>
<p id="aiX2fy"><strong>Last but not least, a quick prediction for the big match...</strong></p>
<p id="wOxj2G"><strong>Will:</strong> <strong>1-0 to Juventus</strong>. By no means am I pessimistic about our chances of getting a result, but I think the most likely outcome remains a narrow home win. Very rarely do Juventus mess these big games up, particularly at home.</p>
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<cite>Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Forza ragazzi! Bring home the win for us!</figcaption>
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<p id="VMf3Er"><strong>Tim:</strong> Ugh. I hate to say it, but <strong>I do think Juventus will win this match.</strong> They enter Saturday’s Derby d’Italia trailing Inter in the league table for the first time in a quite a while. As a result, I expect Juve to be motivated and ready for this one. I can see them scoring in the first half, forcing Inter to throw caution to the wind in search of an equalizer, and sealing all three points with a late goal. My prediction is 2-0 Juve, but as I mentioned above and earlier this week, Inter have <a href="https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/2017/12/5/16735556/time-to-give-credit-where-credit-is-due">made me eat my words</a> this season. Here’s hoping they prove me wrong once again on Saturday!</p>
<p id="DNwQ9w"><strong>Sanat:</strong> <strong>Juve 2-1 Inter.</strong> Strangely, I think a draw or defeat may not be the worst thing in the world at this stage of the season. It will heap less pressure on Inter and perhaps let Juve do some of the running for a few weeks. </p>
<p id="bVCXkK"><strong>Matt:</strong> I really want to see Inter take a 2-0 win here. I think they are completely capable of doing it, but I’m just not sure that happens. We have had a great run and I would love to see it continue. However, my optimism runs out there. In the end, <strong>I see a 1-1 draw</strong>, which would be a good point pick-up in my opinion. That said, Sanat is right in that if the <em>Nerazzurri </em>do take a loss in Turin, it is certainly not the end of the world as it is better to take a loss now than in about four months when we are staring European football right in the face.</p>
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<p id="MzicU0">Are you feeling optimistic or pessimistic ahead of this weekend’s game? What will be the decisive factor at the Allianz Stadium? Do you have other unforgettable Derby d’Italia memories to share? Let us know in the comments section below.</p>
<p class="c-end-para" id="HvmkWX">One more time, just for luck - <em><strong>Forza Inter!</strong></em></p>
https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/2017/12/8/16745690/juventus-vs-inter-som-staff-previewWill BeckmanTim KrausM.A. ClarkSanat Talmaki2017-12-07T19:19:02+01:002017-12-07T19:19:02+01:00The target on Inter Milan’s back seems to get bigger
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<img alt="FC Internazionale v AC Chievo Verona - Serie A" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qDyHQuKNhxPwGJGonYSa-CEq_pY=/0x17:3000x2017/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57889441/884772110.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>The FC Internazionale Milano fans show their support prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Chievo Verona at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on December 3, 2017 in Milan, Italy. | Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Being top in Serie A comes with a bullseye.</p> <p id="NgiUKO">Not that it’s breaking news or anything, but when you are tops in the division, everyone else wants to take a shot at you.</p>
<p id="Hv8QyX">And, with today’s social media influence, those shots can come from a myriad of directions.</p>
<p id="Og1F1R">Take, for example, Sandro Pello, the director of communications for <a href="https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/">Juventus</a>, who went on the team’s official channel <a href="http://www.fcinter1908.it/ultimora/incredibile-a-juve-tv-linter-deve-stare-nelle-fogne-vanno-cancellati-dal-pianeta/?refresh_ce-cp">and just blasted off on Inter</a>:</p>
<blockquote><p id="y90Kip">“I dream of asphalting them, erasing them from the planet, taking away every little glimmer, desire, hope of being a normal team. They must stay in the sewers where they have been in the last years, in the manholes hidden in the dark.”</p></blockquote>
<h5 id="jhB8tT">- Sandro Pello, Juventus director of communications to Juventus TV</h5>
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<cite>FCInter1908.it</cite>
<figcaption>Sandro Pello, director of communications for Juventus, blasted off on Inter on Juventus TV ahead of Saturday’s Derby D’Italia.</figcaption>
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<p id="SJp0Jd">Of course, I realize most of this is just fodder for fans to get riled up leading up to Saturday’s Derby d’Itallia in Turin, but really?</p>
<p id="6CaQAQ">If that wasn’t enough, even Pordenone – <a href="https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/">Inter Milan</a>’s opponent in the upcoming Coppa Italia – have taken to social media to come after the <em>Nerazzurri</em>.</p>
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<p lang="it" dir="ltr">Ehi <a href="https://twitter.com/Inter?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Inter</a>, sta diventando una cosa seria <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INTPOR?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INTPOR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/forzaramarri?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#forzaramarri</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/timcup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#timcup</a> <a href="https://t.co/tt1nolPQ6W">pic.twitter.com/tt1nolPQ6W</a></p>— Pordenone Calcio (@PordenoneCalcio) <a href="https://twitter.com/PordenoneCalcio/status/938750791501967360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2017</a>
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<p id="3Yj7jp">Hey, I get it. You are a team struggling in the throes of Serie C and you get an opportunity to play with the big boys at the Giuseppe Meazza soon. And getting 3,000 fans into the San Siro among 60,000+ Interisti will be impressive … kind of.</p>
<p id="OHNtZH">What I don’t get is the blast off from the director of communications for Juventus. I mean, wow. Just what effect were you going for? Riling up the fans? I doubt they needed your words of wisdom for that. Perhaps you were trying to impress the female host on Juventus TV?? Yeah, I guess I could see that. </p>
<p id="SOagtQ">Oh well. In the end, we all know we have a target on our backs. We’ve been there before and we will be there again. We should expect nothing less from others who aspire to achieve what we have in such a short time.</p>
<p class="c-end-para" id="O1jYnx">Forza Inter!</p>
https://www.serpentsofmadonnina.com/2017/12/7/16745640/the-target-on-inter-milans-back-seems-to-get-biggerM.A. Clark