Inter Milan vs Benfica Preview - 19/04/2023 - UEFA Champions League
Inter Milan are set for a refreshing break from Serie A challenges as they set up to face Benfica in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final at San Siro.
Despite being labeled as underdogs, Simone Inzaghi's team returned from Estadio da Luz with a 2-0 first-leg advantage, ending a six-game winless streak. Goals from Nicolo Barella and Romelu Lukaku delivered through precise crosses, positioned Inter favorably.
This season, the Milanian outfit has showcased prowess in knockout competitions, with a Coppa Italia semi-final against Juventus also in their sights.
However, the domestic league has proven to be a different story, evident in their recent 1-0 defeat to Monza. With just one point from their last five league matches, they are currently fifth in the standings, trailing city rivals AC Milan by two points.
Despite their Serie A struggles, Inter remain a force in European competition. Holding a 2-0 lead over the Portuguese side after the first leg, Nerazzurri have never been eliminated from a European Cup knockout tie when securing a two-goal advantage in the initial leg.
On the other side, despite their efforts last week, Benfica's missed chances, Onana's goalkeeping, and solid Inter defense posed challenges. As the Eagles aim for a comeback, they rely on their resilience on the road in the Champions League.
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Inter Milan vs Benfica Prediction - 19/04/2023 - UEFA Champions League
An undermanned Inter defense, previously known for its clean sheets, is likely to be breached in this match as Schmidt's team aggressively pursues their European aspirations.
The return of Otamendi will bolster Benfica's defensive strength, especially considering their historical success in European away games. Despite this, both both teams are currently grappling with moral issues.
Inzaghi's cup-specialized team, known for their proficiency in knockout competitions, may secure a tightly contested draw, paving the way for a potential all-Italian semi-final against Napoli or Milan.
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Inter Milan vs Benfica Head-to-Head
- Benfica 0 - 2 Inter Milan (2023/04/11)
- Benfica 0 - 0 Inter Milan (2004/03/26)
- Inter Milan 4 - 3 Benfica (2004/03/12)
- Benfica 0 - 0 Inter Milan (2008/08/15)
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Inter Milan vs Benfica Predicted XI
Benfica Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Vlachodimos; Gilberto, Silva, Verissimo, Grimaldo; Luis, Chiquinho; Mario, Silva, Aursnes; Ramos
Inter Milan Predicted XI (3-5-2): Onana; D'Ambrosio, Darmian, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Brozovic, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Martinez, Dzeko
Latest team form
Benfica: L L L W W W
Inter Milan: L W D D L L
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Team News - Injury and Suspension list
Benfica
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Julian Draxler: Ankle Surgery
- Alexander Bah: Knee Injury
Inter Milan
- Dalbert: Cruciate Ligament Injury
- Milan Skriniar: Back trouble
- Alessandro Fontanarosa: Unknown Injury
- Stefan de Vrij: Unknown Injury
Inter faced not just defeat but injury setbacks against Monza, with center-back Stefan de Vrij leaving early due to an ankle concern. The extent of his absence is uncertain, but Francesco Acerbi may step in. Milan Skriniar is also sidelined, but Hakan Calhanoglu's return is a positive.
Marcelo Brozovic may retain his place over Calhanoglu, while Lukaku aims for his 10th Champions League goal for Inter. Dzeko and Martinez could lead the attack.
The Portuguese side, meanwhile, welcomes back Nicolas Otamendi, while Morato may make way. Florentino returns from suspension, Ristic overcomes a muscle issue, but Draxler remains sidelined. Struggling with injuries, Benfica's defense relies on Gilberto. Goncalo Ramos, with 299 pressures in the final third, seeks to end his goal drought at San Siro.
Where to watch Inter Milan vs Benfica
- Australia: Stan Sport
- Brazil: Space Brazil, HBO Max
- Spain: Movistar Liga de Campeones 2, Movistar+
- UK: BTSport.com, BT Sport 2, BT Sport App
- USA: ViX, Paramount+, TUDN.com, VIX+, TUDN App, TUDNxtra