Inter Milan are riding a wave of momentum, winning six straight league matches to sit top of Serie A on 42 points. After 18 rounds, they boast a league-best 40 goals scored and just 15 conceded, underlining their dominance at both ends of the pitch. Their attack is notably diverse: 17 different players have found the net this season, while their 11 headed goals rank joint-first across Europe’s top five leagues. Captain Lautaro Martínez leads the scoring charts with 10 goals, anchoring a fluid and efficient offensive system.
However, Inter face a major defensive crisis. Right-backs Denzel Dumfries and Matteo Darmian, centre-backs Francesco Acerbi and Palacios, as well as midfielders Diouf and Davide Frattesi, are all sidelined. The extensive injuries significantly weaken defensive cohesion and midfield depth, raising concerns over home defensive stability.
Napoli, meanwhile, have shown signs of inconsistency. A 2–2 home draw against Verona last round ended a four-match winning streak in all competitions. They sit third on 38 points, four behind Inter. Defensive issues are increasingly evident: with Amir Rrahmani injured, Napoli’s makeshift centre-back pairing has struggled aerially, winning less than 50% of duels. Additional absences, including André-Frank Zambo Anguissa, have further exposed problems with mobility and composure at the back.
Historically, Inter hold the edge in this fixture, with 70 wins from 157 Serie A meetings. Notably, they have scored in each of their last 13 league encounters with Napoli, highlighting a consistent attacking threat. While Inter’s injury-hit defense is a clear vulnerability, Napoli’s recent dip in form and defensive frailties balance the contest.
As a pivotal title clash, the match is likely to develop into a tense tactical battle. Inter are expected to lean on their multi-pronged attack to offset defensive shortcomings, while Napoli will look to exploit spaces on the counter. Backed by home advantage and greater overall balance, Inter appear slightly favored to edge this encounter.
Recommendation: Home Win
