Inter Milan is set to host Como at the iconic Giuseppe Meazza stadium on December 23, 2024, as both teams clash during matchday 17 of Serie A. The match kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT), and the home fans are hoping for another commanding performance from the Nerazzurri, who are on the hunt for their third consecutive victory across all competitions.
Simone Inzaghi's side, sitting third with 34 points, is trailing behind Napoli and Atalanta, who have 38 and 40 points respectively. The hosts come off the back of impressive wins, most recently demolishing Lazio 6-0 and moving past Udinese with a 2-0 win in the Coppa Italia.
Como, currently positioned 16th with 15 points, enters the fixture following their surprise 2-0 victory over AS Roma. Coach Francesc Fàbregas is hopeful the team’s recent success can propel them to challenge the reigning champions Inter. Despite their positives, Como remains the underdog, especially when aware of their historical challenges against the Nerazzurri.
This weekend’s match is significant for Inter as they deal with injuries affecting their lineup. Defensive stalwart Stefan De Vrij is expected to miss out due to knee issues alongside Matteo Darmian, which will force coach Simone to reshuffle his defense. Alessandro Bastoni will likely take center stage as the leader of the back-three alongside Yann Bisseck and Carlos Augusto, assuring Inter maintains solidity at the back.
While injury woes loomed, there is some good news for Inter fans with Nicolò Barella returning to the starting lineup. The midfielder had previously faced injuries, but his presence against Como will certainly boost the team's midfield strength. Denzel Dumfries and Federico Dimarco are also set to return as wing-backs after being rested last week.
Como will look to exploit Inter's backline with their attacking trio which consists of Gabriel Strefezza, Nico Paz, and Alieu Fadera. The visiting team’s strategy appears to hinge on testing Inter’s vulnerabilities, particularly with such defensive adjustments. Andrea Belotti is also anticipated to spearhead Como's attack, seeking to maximize his scoring opportunities.
When it involves direct meetings, the statistics favor Inter Milan. Their last encounter ended with Inter securing a staggering 4-0 win at San Siro. With historical dominance established, the Uruguayan fans breathe confidence heading to the match.
The last five matchups between the two clubs result with Inter winning three matches, drawing one, and Como securing victory only once. This pattern reinforces the perception of Inter as heavy favorites heading to this match-up.
Inter’s potent form displays their intent on maintaining title contention, acquiring 34 points from 15 matches characterized by 10 wins, 4 draws, and just one loss. With significant goal-scoring power, Inter has netted 40 goals this season, paralleling their impressive defensive record with only 15 goals conceded.
Looking at both squads, the total injuries reported on both sides reveal both teams are experiencing issues. Apart from Inter’s De Vrij and Darmian, Como’s squad is missing the likes of Moreno, Perrone, Sala, and Gabrielloni. Although Como's playoff appears challenging but winning against Roma might indicate they are ready to deliver surprises.
This Serie A clash is also available live on TNT Sports 1 and One Football for viewers in the UK, with streaming options on Paramount+ for audiences in the USA. Fans can keep abreast of all match actions through Football Italia’s live blog.
With the stakes high and pressure on both coaches to deliver results, all eyes will naturally be on whether Inter can extend their triumphant run or will Como manage to carve out another upset against one of the top teams.
How will the match pan out? Will it be another high-scoring affair, or will Como find their footing against the champions?
