Inter Milan v Napoli – Preview, Predictions and Best Bets

The hosts sit just a point behind Napoli and will aim to reclaim the top spot. Inter have won eight of their last nine matches, while Napoli suffered a surprising 3-0 loss last weekend.

Inter Milan Form

After a shaky start to the season with just two wins in their first six matches, Inter have rediscovered their form. Their September 2-1 home loss to AC Milan is now a distant memory, as they have won eight of their last nine matches across all competitions. This streak includes five straight victories, such as a 1-0 league win at Roma.

In a thrilling 4-4 home draw with Juventus, Inter managed 18 shots to Juve’s 10. Since then, they’ve addressed defensive concerns, with three consecutive clean-sheet wins: a 3-0 win at Empoli, a 1-0 victory over Venezia, and a narrow 1-0 win against Arsenal in midweek. Although outshot 20-7 and allowing 1.80 xG, they secured a fortunate win.

Inter Milan Team News

Coach Simone Inzaghi rotated his squad against Arsenal, resting key players like Marcus Thuram, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Nicolo Barella, and Federico Dimarco, who came on as substitutes and will start in this match. Alessandro Bastoni and Francesco Acerbi are expected to return to the back three, while Tajon Buchanan is fit again, leaving Carlos Augusto as the only absentee.

Inter Milan Motivation

Inter prioritized this match over their midweek fixture against Arsenal. Known for excelling in high-stakes games, they’ll aim to control possession, though they’re also comfortable sitting deep and defending in a back five if necessary.

Napoli Form

Napoli have been impressive under Antonio Conte, currently sitting at the top of the league. Since Conte’s arrival, they’ve won eight of their 11 matches. After a loss on the opening day, they went on to win seven of the next eight matches, with a 0-0 draw against Juventus as the only exception.

In a 3-1 home win over Como, they managed with just 40% possession. They took 24 shots to secure a narrow 1-0 win against Lecce and then beat AC Milan 2-0 with only 39% possession. However, they were shocked last weekend by a 3-0 home defeat to Atalanta, who scored with all three of their shots on target.

Napoli Team News

Conte will be without Stanislav Lobotka in midfield, and attacking midfielder Michael Folorunsho is also unavailable. Conte may consider changes after last week’s poor performance, especially in the front three. Veteran defender Juan Jesus is an option for rotation in the backline.

Napoli Motivation

Conte’s side doesn’t rely heavily on possession but instead prefers fast, direct attacks and transitions. A draw would be an excellent result, and Conte will focus on avoiding a loss to his former club.

Key Stats

Inter Milan have won just 10 of their last 18 Serie A matches (1 loss, 7 draws).

Inter have won eight of their last nine matches in all competitions (3 clean sheets in a row).

Inter’s Marcus Thuram has scored seven Serie A goals this season (goalless in his last four games).

Napoli have won nine of their last ten matches in all competitions.

Napoli have lost two of their last three matches against Inter Milan.

Verdict

This is a pivotal match in the title race. Inter are strong in high-profile matches and should have the edge.