Prematch: Inter vs Benfica
Roger Schmidt hopes Inter can overturn its two-goal UCL quarterfinal advantage.
Published: April 18, 2023 23:29
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After their shocking loss against Monza in Serie A’s debut season, Inter Milan are back for another go in this UEFA Champions League quarterfinal clash against SL Benfica and are determined to protect a two-goal advantage they took into the first leg. Kickoff for this second leg fixture begins at 20:00 (GMT+1) at San Siro with Carlos del Cerro Grande [ESP] officiating while Juan Martinez Munuera [ESP] serves as VAR.
Inter Milan Make Unbeaten Streak Against Benfica Count Despite Recent Poor Form
Inter Milan suffered an upset 1-0 loss against debutants AC Monza at the weekend and are winless across five games across all competitions, LDDWL. But they do hold one foot in the semifinals thanks to last week’s 2-0 first leg win against Benfica. Inter’s win against Benfica on Tuesday keeps them undefeated in four matches against them [3W, 1D, 0L]. Now looking to protect a two-goal advantage following goals by Nicolo Barella [51′] and Lukaku [82′ P.], they must continue their unbeaten streak against their rival. Although Inzaghi enjoyed success on Sunday, he is still under immense pressure due to Inter’s poor domestic form. But with Europe providing him with vital respite, this former Lazio forward seems to be leaning on something of a lifeline. “The boys did an outstanding job against a very strong side in an extremely challenging stadium,” De Zerbi was quoted in reports linking Brighton with Inter’s managerial job search. After their victory against Benfica in the first leg, Inzaghi said another great performance would be necessary to reach the semi-finals. A three-five two formation is anticipated against them with Lukaku and Edin Dzeko leading their attacks; Bastoni, Dimarco, Lautaro Martinez will miss next game if booked; Edin Dzeko was also named on their squad list.
Benfica Looking to Overcome Two-Goal Deficit Against Chaves, Despite Three Straight Losses
Benfica are currently reeling after three consecutive losses to Chaves, though are hoping to overcome their two goal deficit from the first leg in order to come out ahead in this tie. Benfica have already managed to beat an Italian side on the road this season in the UEFA Champions League – they defeated Juventus at home during group stage play – so will look to do it again here against what are likely to be greater odds. “We must always trust ourselves,” explained manager Bruno Martins Indi. “Inter have played more efficiently, so we need to emulate that and I believe we can win in Milan,” Roger Schmidt stated after last week’s defeat. Goncalo Ramos will lead the attack once more for Real Sociedad on Tuesday night, with Fredrik Aursnes, Joao Mario and Rafa set to form an attacking trio with him in attack. Ramos, who is tied for top scoring with Joao Mario [17 goals], currently boasts three goals and three assists this competition – and could face suspension should they receive yellow cards here; Florentino Luis may also face suspension while Otamendi returns after having been suspended during the first leg.
