Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
Since the end of November, Bayer Leverkusen have strung together a series of unconvincing victories, a situation that favours Inter Milan given their rival's mediocre form. Both sides are keen to finish the 2024 year in European competition on a high note, so they will aim for victory without taking unnecessary defensive risks.
Bayer Leverkusen
After thrashing Salzburg (5:0), Bayer Leverkusen secured three domestic wins, each by the narrowest of margins. Against Bayern Munich (1:0) in the DFB-Pokal, with the opposition reduced to ten men for nearly 80 minutes, they managed fewer shots (9:10) and had less possession (44%-56%). In Munich, Leverkusen lost yet another forward, adding to the injury list where Victor Boniface and Patrik Schick are also sidelined, while Florian Wirtz led the line against St. Pauli (2:1) in a starting role. This resulted in a rather lacklustre attacking performance (0.92–1.42 in xG).
Inter Milan
Following the November international break, Inter Milan secured three consecutive wins with a combined scoreline of 9:1. In the fifth round of the UCL group stage against RB Leipzig (1:0), they achieved victory through relentless pressure (1.37–0.15 in xG and 4–1 in shots on target). The Milan side are still the only team that has not conceded a single goal in European competition, with only Liverpool amassing more points (15).
Bayer Leverkusen vs Inter Milan Prediction
A more skilful and injury-free Inter Milan should take points from Bayer Leverkusen. We are sure that they will not lose.
