Sabasports Match Preview
UEFA Champions League: Inter vs Arsenal
Kickoff Time: 2024-11-07 04:00(HKT)
Source:REUTERS/Claudia Greco
Inter secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Venezia at home in last weekend’s league match, extending their unbeaten streak to eight games across all competitions, showcasing impressive form. Inter primarily employs a 3-5-2 formation, with a tactical approach focused on counter-attacks and solid defense. Simone Inzaghi’s tactics emphasize a tight defensive setup, utilizing midfield interceptions and quick counter-attacks to create scoring opportunities. Lautaro Martinez’s exceptional individual skills will play a crucial role in the team’s counter-attacks. Additionally, Federico Dimarco’s crosses are also a vital weapon for Inter. Notably, Hakan Calhanoglu has returned from injury in the last match, providing a significant boost to the team.
Arsenal, on the other hand, suffered a 0-1 defeat to Newcastle United in their away match last weekend, marking three consecutive league matches without a win. Currently, Arsenal trails league leaders Liverpool by seven points in the Premier League standings, making their title challenge increasingly difficult. Undoubtedly, the absence of Martin Odegaard has had a significant impact on Arsenal, leading to a sharp decline in their scoring efficiency during open play and an unprecedented reliance on set pieces. This has resulted in a slower transition between attack and defense, with their previously fluid attacking combinations disappearing, causing headaches for Mikel Arteta. Furthermore, in their last five away matches, Arsenal has managed only one win, with two draws and two losses, indicating a serious decline in their away performance.
While Arsenal’s overall strength may be slightly superior to that of Inter, recent form and performances suggest that the Gunners are clearly not as strong as the Nerazzurri. Considering that Inter is gradually welcoming back injured players while Arsenal continues to struggle with injuries, Inter undoubtedly has a more complete squad. Coupled with Inter’s traditionally strong home performance and Arsenal’s recent poor away form, it would be reasonable to expect Inter to defend their home ground successfully in this match.
Inter’s Last 5 Games: WWDWW
24-11-04 Inter 1-0 Venezia
24-10-31 Empoli 0-3 Inter
24-10-28 Inter 4-4 Juventus
24-10-24 Young Boys 0-1 Inter
24-10-21 Roma 0-1 Inter
Arsenal’s Last 5 Games: LWDWL
24-11-02 Newcastle United 1-0 Arsenal
24-10-31 Preston North End 0-3 Arsenal
24-10-28 Arsenal 2-2 Liverpool
24-10-23 Arsenal 1-0 Shakhtar Donetsk
24-10-20 Bournemouth 2-0 Arsenal
Head To Head Record:
07-07-30 Arsenal 2-1 Inter
03-11-26 Inter 1-5 Arsenal
03-09-18 Arsenal 0-3 Inter
Prediction: Inter to win or Draw