Juventus have close to a full squad available and will be close to their strongest, although they may be without Barzagli who has missed training. An attack-minded 4-2-3-1 shape looks likely again, with them playing well, but Marchisio is pushing for a recall to give them a boost in midfield, with Khedira and Cuadrado seemingly most vulnerable, though a place on the bench looks more probable. Allegri’s side will be keen to avenge the defeat they suffered at Inter earlier on in the season and they will be looking to maintain their advantage at the top of the table. Having won each of their last 27 home games in Serie A, which is a remarkable feat, they’ll go into the game with confidence and there will be no shortage of motivation against their rivals in the Derby D’Italia. They’ll again be seeking a strong start and they often come out with an attacking approach, looking to put the visitors under pressure and aiming to develop an early lead. If they can get in front, they’ll focus on managing the game, looking to add more goals in a more conservative manner and leaning on their defence a bit more. If level late or trailing, they’ll become more attack-minded.
Inter have a complete squad of players available, with Ansaldi returning from suspension to give them a boost at left back, where he’s anticipated to start. Some places are up for grabs, but Pioli is expected to name his strongest starting XI, with Joao Mario again being preferred to Banega in the attacking midfield role and likely starting Murillo over Medel in central defence. Pioli has had a positive impact on this previously underperforming Inter squad and they’re now on a run of seven straight wins in Serie A and are challenging for a top three finish. They will travel with belief and lots of hunger, as it would give them great satisfaction to put and end to Juventus’ home winning streak, while a draw would be considered a positive outcome from this tough fixture. Their primary objective will be to defend well and to make life difficult for Juventus, although they have too much attacking talent to just sit back and soak up pressure, being capable of creating chances in attack. They’ll likely need to weather an early storm, but will grow into the game if they manage to stay on level terms. With a draw a good result, they’ll only really take risks if behind.
Verdict & Prediction
Motivation will be high for the Derby D’Italia, with Juventus keen to avenge the defeat they suffered away to Inter earlier in the season. The home side will be aiming to win the game to maintain their lead over Roma at the top of the table and anything less will be a disappointing outcome. Allegri’s side have a remarkable record at home and have won each of their last 27 games in the Juventus Stadium in Serie A. They will go into the game in a confident mood as a result and always have belief in their ability to get the desired three points.
Prediction: Juventus -0.75 AH
Odds: 1.78 Pinnacle
