Inter Milan suffered a 1-0 defeat to Juventus last weekend in the Derby d’Italia, marking their second loss in three games (W1). While the result was a blow to their title ambitions, setbacks for Napoli and Atalanta ensured they remain firmly in the race. With tough fixtures against Lazio and Napoli coming up after this clash with Genoa, Inter must improve on their recent mixed form in Serie A (W3, D2, L2) if they are to defend their title.
Their record against Genoa offers some encouragement, with just one defeat in their last 12 meetings (W8, D3). However, each of the last four encounters ended in draws, including a 2-2 stalemate on the opening day of the season. Returning to the San Siro, where they have won eight of their last ten competitive home matches (D1, L1), could provide the perfect setting for Inter to get back on track.
Sommer Injury Adds to Inter’s Concerns
Inter will have to navigate this match without first-choice goalkeeper Yann Sommer, who suffered a fractured thumb in training on Thursday. The Swiss shot-stopper underwent successful surgery and will now begin rehabilitation, with his return expected after the international break in mid-March.
This means Josep Martinez is set to make his Serie A debut for Inter against his former club Genoa, the team he joined from last summer. The Spaniard has played only in the Coppa Italia so far, making this a crucial test as he steps in for the league leaders at a decisive point in the season.
Genoa Struggle for Consistency
Genoa left it late to secure a 2-0 win over Venezia last Monday, needing two goals after the 80th minute. However, their inability to build momentum remains a major issue, as they have yet to win back-to-back league games this season, with their last consecutive victories in Serie A coming over a year ago in January 2024.
Patrick Vieira’s side have struggled for goals, averaging fewer than one goal per match this season. They have scored exactly once in each of their last three away matches but failed to win any of them (D1, L2). Despite their limitations, Genoa have proven to be strong in second halves, recording 12 second-half ‘wins’ this season—a tally bettered by only two teams before this round.
Key Players to Watch
Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan): The Argentine forward has been in sensational form this season, but he has yet to score against Genoa in seven Serie A meetings, the longest goal drought he has against any club.
Andrea Pinamonti (Genoa): The striker has just one goal in 11 personal H2Hs with Inter, but he has opened the scoring for Genoa in their last two matches and will look to make an early impact.
Hot Stat
Genoa remain the only Serie A team yet to score in the first ten minutes of a match this season, while no team has netted more in that period than Inter, who have struck five early goals.
Inter’s impressive home record, Genoa’s goal-scoring struggles, and the introduction of a new goalkeeper add layers of intrigue to this matchup. With the title race heating up, the Nerazzurri will be eager to avoid another setback and make a strong statement at the San Siro.
