Despite their striking victory over Lazio (3:1), Parma aren’t considered clear favourites for their away game against Inter Milan. The might of the reigning Italian champions is so apparent that it leaves the underdogs without even a glimmer of hope for points in the upcoming match.
Inter Milan managed to maintain their form and preserve the energy of their starting lineup for the upcoming week due to the interrupted game with Fiorentina. Following the international break, the team declassified Verona in Serie A (5:0), creating 3.14 xG and taking 12 shots in 90 minutes. Cumulatively in expected goals, they rank in the top three of the championship with 28.20. In the Champions League, the Milan side often cede initiative to their opponents, playing with a reserve in a low block — a tactic that enabled them to overcome RB Leipzig (1:0), for instance.
Parma's return to the elite Italian division has been marred by defensive lapses. For example, at home against Atalanta (1:3), they allowed 2.89 xGA and conceded 15 shots. Generally, they find it extremely challenging to withstand the offensive onslaught of the top teams. While the home crowd gave the Crusaders a boost against Lazio, the injuries of Adrián Bernabé, Mateusz Kowalski, and Yordan Osorio will once again take a toll at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza.
Inter Milan must resolve all Serie A matters before heading to Leverkusen next week. Parma rank among the bottom four for chances conceded (26.11 xGA), suggesting that the unstable mid-table side will struggle defensively in Milan.
