Inter Milan vs Benfica Prediction UCL Picks 10/3
- Lm Tipster
- Oct 3, 2023, 1:22:20 AM
© John Geliebter-USA TODAY Sports
Inter Milan vs. Benfica: A Champions League Must-Watch
The iconic San Siro plays host to an eagerly-awaited Group D clash between Inter Milan and Benfica on Tuesday evening.
Introduction
Inter Milan are back in action for their second Champions League match, after drawing with Real Sociedad. Benfica, however, are looking to bounce back from their surprising defeat to Red Bull Salzburg.
Inter Milan
Current Form
Despite criticism for squad rotations in their opener, Inter Milan seem poised for victory. The team's domestic form has been solid, as evidenced by their recent Serie A win over Salernitana.
Key Players
Lautaro Martinez is the man in focus, especially after scoring four goals in Inter's latest Serie A game. His late equalizer against La Real indicates his capability of stepping up when it matters most.
Possible Lineup
Sommer; Pavard, De Vrij, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Martinez, Thuram
Strengths and Tactics
Unbeaten in their last five home European matches, Inter Milan have shown their ability to hold their ground at the San Siro. They will be looking for victory against a team they ousted in last year's competition.
Benfica
Current Form
After losing to Red Bull Salzburg, Benfica managed to recover somewhat with consecutive league wins. Still, they currently sit in fourth place in the group and can't afford another setback.
Key Players
With Antonio Silva out due to suspension, the burden will fall on the shoulders of players like Neves and Di Maria to step up.
Possible Lineup
Trubin; Bah, Otamendi, Morato, Aursnes; Kokcu, Neves; Di Maria, Neres, Silva; Musa
Strengths and Tactics
While their recent form might suggest resilience, Benfica have been struggling in front of the net, which might prove costly against a team like Inter Milan.
Statistics
Inter Milan's recent form reads WWDWLW across all competitions, while Benfica has a slightly inconsistent WWWLWW. Notably, Benfica's defeat to Salzburg ended an eight-game unbeaten run in the Champions League group stage.
Prediction
The smart money is on 'Inter Milan to win' due to several factors, including:
- Scoring Woes: Benfica have found it tough to convert chances recently, especially in their loss to Salzburg.
- Inter's Home Fortitude: Inter Milan have maintained an unbeaten streak at San Siro in European competition, which bodes well for them.
- Martinez Factor: Lautaro Martinez's current form could very well tip the scale in Inter's favor.
Conclusion
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter, with Inter Milan looking like the favorites based on recent form and tactical advantages. Benfica will need a monumental effort to leave Italy with a point or three.
