Juventus are looking to get back to winning ways when they welcome a stuttering Inter Milan side to the Juventus Stadium on Sunday evening.
The Bianconeri have enjoyed a positive 2016 so far, and although they dropped points against a rigid Bologna side last Friday, their spirited comeback against Bayern Munich must have boosted their confidence ahead of the derby on Sunday.
Claudio Marchisio will be out for this big game having picked up a thigh injury. Other than that, Massimilliano Allegri will have almost the full squad to choose from. One positive news for Juventus is that Giorgio Chiellini is expected to be back in training after his injury and should start the game against Inter.
Roberto Mancini will also have the full squad at his disposal with the exception of Marcelo Brozovic who is out due to a suspension. This game could have been a potential title decider, but Inter’s displays in 2016 mean this will be a must-win for the Nerazzurri as they chase down the third place.
Lineups
Juventus
Possible Starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Chiellini, Bonucci, Barzagli; Lichsteiner, Pogba, Khedira, Hernanes, Sandro; Mandzukic, Dybala.
Inter Milan
Possible Starting XI (4-4-2): Handanovic; D’Ambrosio, Miranda, Murillo, Nagatomo; Biabiany, Medel, Melo, Perisic; Icardi, Palacio.
Key Stats
- Juventus are undefeated in their last 8 matches against Inter in all competitions.
- Juventus have won their last 9 home matches (Serie A).
- Inter have conceded at least 2 goals in their last 3 away matches (Serie A).
- This will be the 166th Serie A meetings between these two sides – Juventus lead by 78 wins to 45, with 42 draws.
- Juventus have found the net in each of their last nine home games against Inter in Serie A.
Prediction
Juventus 2-1 Inter Milan
Juventus fell short of equalling Inter Milan’s league record for the most consecutive wins after being held to a 0-0 draw against Bologna last Friday. However that did not affect them too much, as Napoli failed to beat AC Milan on Monday. Inter did win their last game against Sampdoria, but it was by no means a comprehensive display. Mancini’s men will have to improve a lot if they are to get anything out of this fixture. With Fiorentina taking on Napoli later on Monday, Inter have the chance to make ground on their rivals for third spot. Last time around, Inter failed to beat a struggling Juventus side, now the task looks even more daunting.
Odds (Bet365.com)
Juventus win 1.57
Juventus win or draw 1.14
