Inter Milan will host Bologna at the iconic San Siro stadium on Wednesday evening, aiming to secure a seventh consecutive league win. The reigning Serie A champions remain hot on the heels of league leaders Napoli, sitting just four points behind with two games in hand. Meanwhile, Bologna, fresh off a dramatic draw with Roma, seeks to upset Inter once again, having enjoyed a memorable victory in their last visit to San Siro during the Coppa Italia.
Inter Milan: Defensive Stability Meets Attacking Prowess
Simone Inzaghi’s side comes into this match in fine form. Their recent 1-0 win over Venezia extended their impressive run of four consecutive clean-sheet victories. Inter’s defense, led by Stefan De Vrij and Alessandro Bastoni, has been rock-solid, conceding just one goal in their last five league games.
Inter’s attack has also been firing on all cylinders. With Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram expected to lead the line, Bologna’s defense will be tested. Both Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Hakan Calhanoglu are doubtful due to thigh injuries, so the midfield trio of Nicolo Barella, Kristjan Asllani, and Piotr Zielinski may continue. Benjamin Pavard’s return from injury strengthens Inter’s backline, but Francesco Acerbi, Yann Bisseck, and Joaquin Correa remain unavailable.
Bologna’s Quest for a San Siro Surprise
Despite a frustrating 2-2 draw with Roma, Vincenzo Italiano’s Bologna has shown resilience. They have lost only twice on the road this season and currently sit seventh in the Serie A standings. Tommaso Pobega returns from suspension, adding stability to the midfield, but Jhon Lucumi will miss the match due to accumulated bookings.
Key players like Riccardo Orsolini, who has been directly involved in three goals in his last four appearances against Inter, could play a vital role. Up front, Thijs Dallinga or Santiago Castro will likely lead Bologna’s attack, supported by Lewis Ferguson and Orsolini.
Prediction
Inter Milan’s excellent form and home advantage make them favorites to win this encounter. However, Bologna’s ability to score in their last 13 league meetings at San Siro suggests they won’t go down without a fight. A 2-1 or 3-1 victory for Inter Milan seems likely.
Predicted Lineups
Inter Milan Starting XI:
Sommer; Pavard, De Vrij, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Asllani, Zielinski, Dimarco; Martinez, Thuram
Bologna Starting XI:
Skorupski; Holm, Beukema, Casale, Miranda; Freuler, Pobega; Orsolini, Ferguson, Dominguez; Castro
