Inter aim to extend dominance as Juventus chase top four in Derby d’Italia
Inter riding winning streak ahead of crucial clash
Serie A leaders Inter head into the 255th Derby d’Italia in outstanding form as they prepare to host Juventus. Since their Champions League defeat to Arsenal last month, the Nerazzurri have responded perfectly, winning five consecutive matches across all competitions, including a dominant 5-0 victory over Sassuolo.
Cristian Chivu’s side have now extended their league unbeaten run to 12 matches and sit eight points clear at the top of the table. Inter have also shown their ability to control games early, opening the scoring in 20 league matches this season, the most in Serie A, and converting 18 of those games into victories.
Their home form has been equally impressive, scoring at least two goals in four of their last five league matches at San Siro, reinforcing their status as favourites heading into this historic rivalry clash.
Juventus struggling for consistency in top four battle
Juventus arrive in Milan under pressure as they continue to battle for a Champions League qualification spot. Luciano Spalletti’s side have won just one of their last four competitive matches, including a dramatic 2-2 draw against Lazio last weekend where they salvaged a point with a stoppage-time equaliser.
That result left Juventus level on points with Roma while still trailing third-placed Napoli by three points. Their away form against stronger opposition remains a concern, having lost all three away league matches this season against teams currently inside the top eight.
Scoring has also been an issue on the road, with Juventus failing to find the net in three of their last four away league fixtures, which could prove costly against one of the league’s strongest defensive units.
Recent head-to-head results favour Juventus
Despite Inter’s strong season, Juventus have had the upper hand in recent meetings between the two sides. The Bianconeri have won the last two Serie A encounters and could become the first team since 2012 to win three consecutive league matches in this historic rivalry.
This adds an extra layer of intrigue, as Inter look to reassert their dominance while Juventus aim to maintain their psychological edge.
Key players could decide the derby
Federico Dimarco has been one of Inter’s standout performers, contributing eight goals across his last four matches with two goals and six assists, including a three-assist performance against Sassuolo.
Juventus will rely heavily on Kenan Yildiz, who has been particularly dangerous in this fixture. The youngster has scored three goals in his last three meetings with Inter, including a brace in their thrilling 4-4 clash at San Siro.
Inter could also receive a major boost with midfield duo Nicolo Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu returning to training, while Juventus winger Francisco Conceicao remains a doubt after missing the Lazio match.
Defensive strength and attacking trends highlight tactical battle
Inter boast the best defensive record in Serie A this season, keeping 13 clean sheets so far. Their matches at San Siro have also been high-scoring, with nine of their 12 home league fixtures producing over 2.5 goals.
Juventus, meanwhile, have struggled when conceding first away from home, losing all four league matches in which they allowed the opening goal. However, they remain dangerous late in matches, scoring seven of their 16 away league goals between the 61st and 75th minute.
