Date: Sunday, January 19, 2025
Venue: San Siro Stadium, Milan, Italy
Kickoff Time: 20:45 CET (Central European Time)
Competition: Serie A – Matchday 20
Preview
Inter Milan will host Empoli in a pivotal Serie A clash at the iconic San Siro. Inter, currently vying for the league title, will aim to extend their dominance at home. Meanwhile, Empoli, fighting to stay clear of the relegation zone, will be looking for a crucial result against one of Italy’s football giants.
Team Form
Inter Milan
Inter comes into the match in fine form, boasting a series of consistent performances in both domestic and European competitions. Their attacking trio, spearheaded by Lautaro Martínez, has been a nightmare for defenses, while their midfield and backline remain solid under Simone Inzaghi’s tactical setup. Inter’s home record this season has been formidable, making them heavy favorites for this encounter.
- Last 5 Matches (Serie A): W-W-D-W-W
- Key Players: Lautaro Martínez, Nicolò Barella, Alessandro Bastoni
Empoli
Empoli has struggled for consistency this season, sitting precariously close to the relegation zone. Despite their troubles, they’ve shown flashes of resilience, with some determined performances against mid-table sides. Their lack of firepower in attack, however, has been a major concern. Empoli will need a disciplined defensive display and quick transitions if they hope to upset Inter.
- Last 5 Matches (Serie A): L-D-L-W-D
- Key Players: Tommaso Baldanzi, Razvan Marin, Ardian Ismajli
Tactical Analysis
- Inter Milan
Inter will likely dominate possession and look to exploit Empoli’s defensive frailties with their high-pressing game and overlapping wing-backs. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Nicolò Barella and Hakan Çalhanoğlu orchestrating play. - Empoli
Empoli may adopt a defensive 4-4-2 or 4-5-1 setup, focusing on compactness and counter-attacks. Key to their success will be neutralizing Inter’s wing play and capitalizing on set-pieces.
Prediction
Given Inter’s home dominance and superior quality, this match heavily favors the Nerazzurri. While Empoli might frustrate Inter initially, the hosts are expected to break through with their relentless pressure and attacking prowess.
- Predicted Score: Inter 3-0 Empoli
- Goal Scorers: Lautaro Martínez, Marcus Thuram, Hakan Çalhanoğlu