Sabasports Match Preview
UEFA Champions League: Inter vs Atletico Madrid
Kickoff Time: 2024-02-21 04:00(HKT)
Source:REUTERS/DANIELE MASCOLO
In Serie A action over the weekend, Inter secured a convincing 4-0
victory against Salernitana at home. They have been on an impressive undefeated
streak for 26 games across all competitions, showcasing excellent form. In the
previous Champions League group stage, Inter were grouped with Real Sociedad,
Benfica, and Salzburg. The Nerazzurri finished with a record of three wins and
three draws, securing their place in the top 16 as the second-placed team in
the group. Inter predominantly employ a 3-5-2 formation. During the early stages
of matches, they often adopt a deep defensive tactic, capitalizing on the
midfielders’ strong running abilities. Regional pressure from players like
Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez in their own half allows them to disrupt the
opponent’s defensive structure. When the connection between the opposing
defenders and midfielders breaks down, Inter swiftly launches counterattacks,
utilizing the flanks to initiate rapid attacks.
Atletico Madrid achieved a resounding 5-0 victory over Las Palmas at
home last weekend, putting an end to their three-game win-less streak across
all competitions. In the previous group stage matches of the Champions League,
Atletico Madrid competed in a group alongside Lazio, Feyenoord, and Celtic.
They finished with a commendable record of four wins and two losses, securing
their place in the top 16 as the group leaders. However, there is unfortunate
news regarding Atletico Madrid’s top scorer, Alvaro Morata. He sustained a
right knee bone contusion and medial ligament sprain, which will sideline him
for a minimum of 20 days. Consequently, Morata will miss this first leg against
Inter. In the current season, Morata has featured in 33 games for Atletico
Madrid, scoring 19 goals and providing two assists, making him their leading scorer.
The absence of Morata’s contributions leaves them somewhat lacking in
confidence.
It is true that Inter have been performing well recently, securing
consecutive victories in all competitions. On the other hand, Atletico Madrid’s
form has been somewhat inconsistent, particularly in their away matches where
they have lacked stability. Facing a strong opponent like Inter away from home,
Atletico Madrid may struggle to gain an advantage, especially considering the
absence of their top scorer, Morata. Considering these factors, it is
reasonable to expect Inter, who are in excellent form, to have the upper hand
and potentially come out on top in their home fixture against Atletico Madrid.
Inter’s Last 5 Games: WWWWW
24-02-17 Inter 4-0 Salernitana
24-02-11 Roma 2-4 Inter
24-02-05 Inter 1-0 Juventus
24-01-29 Fiorentina 0-1 Inter
24-01-23 Napoli 0-1 Inter
Atletico Madrid’s Last 5 Games: WLLDW
24-02-17 Atletico Madrid 5-0 Las Palmas
24-02-12 Sevilla 1-0 Atletico Madrid
24-02-08 Atletico Madrid 0-1 Athletic Club
24-02-05 Real Madrid 1-1 Atletico Madrid
24-02-01 Atletico Madrid 2-1 Rayo Vallecano
Head To Head Record:
18-08-12 Atletico Madrid 0-1 Inter
10-08-28 Inter 0-2 Atletico Madrid
Prediction: Inter to win