Inter Milan will face Cagliari on Saturday evening at the Sardegna Arena, with high stakes for both teams. The match is scheduled to kick off at 18:00 CET (17:00 GMT), and it promises to be pivotal not only for the title race but also for the relegation battle.
With Inter currently sitting third in Serie A, only one point behind Napoli and three behind league leaders Atalanta, the Nerazzurri are under pressure to secure all three points against Cagliari. Coach Simone Inzaghi is optimistic about his team's chances, particularly after their recent 2-0 win over Como. The team is showing good form, having gone eleven league games unbeaten since their last derby loss to AC Milan back in September.
Cagliari, on the other hand, is grappling with dire circumstances. Positioned at 18th place, they are firmly entrenched in the relegation zone and have lost their last four matches. Coach Davide Nicola has acknowledged the heavy task his team faces after the festive break, especially following their narrow defeat to Venezia. The Isolani desperately need to gather points if they are to avoid relegation.
Inter's back line has been bolstered with the return of center-back Stefan De Vrij from injury. He is expected to feature alongside Yann Bisseck and Alessandro Bastoni, maintaining the team’s established defensive structure. Meanwhile, Cagliari looks to welcome Yerry Mina back to their lineup, with the center-back key to stabilizing their defense.
For Inter, star players Hakan Calhanoglu, Nicolò Barella, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan will anchor the midfield, all of whom are poised to showcase their skills against Cagliari's defensive line. Up front, Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram will lead the attack. Martinez, who has gone nearly two months without scoring, has received support from his coach. "I am confident Lautaro will find the net soon," stated Coach Simone. "He has always stepped up during tough times," indicating his unwavering belief in his captain's abilities.
Cagliari’s lineup features players who could potentially exploit Inter’s vulnerabilities on the break. The expected formation includes Sherri as goalkeeper, supported by Zappa, Mina, Luperto, and Obert at the back. They will aim to bolster their attacking options with Zortea and Augello playing wide. Nicolò Viola’s performances have been noted as particularly influential and could play a decisive role against the visitors.
Fans are advised to catch the match on various platforms. Viewers in the UK can watch the game live on TNT Sports 2 and stream through Discovery+, whereas fans across the U.S. can find it on CBS Sports Golazo Network and Paramount+.
Historically, Inter holds the upper hand over Cagliari, winning 10 out of their last 13 meetings. Despite Cagliari’s struggles this season, this matchup has never been straightforward; previous sides have occasionally risen to the occasion when facing stronger opponents. Will Cagliari's resolve and home advantage be enough to fend off the title contenders?
While Inter seeks to reduce the gap with Atalanta, Cagliari will look to shift their fortunes and gain valuable points to escape relegation threats. Predictions lean heavily toward Inter Milan’s victory, with analysts anticipating at least two goals from the Nerazzurri.
All eyes will be on Sardegna Arena as these two sides clash, with the outcome possibly impacting both the title race and the relegation battle. Cagliari must muster all their determination to compete, but Inter's experience and recent form may prove too formidable.
