Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Coppa Italia match.
Inter Milan's recent thrashing of Lazio (6:0) further highlighted the gap between them and other top Serie A sides. The reigning Italian champions are cohesive and consistent—qualities that should see them comfortably defeat Udinese on Thursday.
Inter Milan
The aforementioned victory over Lazio marked Inter's seventh win in their last nine matches. At the Stadio Olimpico, they generated 2.13 xG with 12 shots, while wing-backs Federico Dimarco and Denzel Dumfries each contributed with a goal and an assist. It's advantageous for Inter that injuries aren't depleting their squad depth—the coaching staff are utilising the full roster. In eight home matches since the start of October, Inter Milan have scored 18 goals.
Udinese
Almost nothing remains of the sensational Udinese from the season's start. At one point, they even grabbed the top spot in the Serie A, but since 30 October, they have suffered five defeats in seven league games. Against Napoli (1:3), Udinese crumbled in the second half, conceding three goals in 31 minutes (with a total of 2.16 xGA).
Inter Milan vs Udinese Prediction
Former Inter Milan player Alexis Sánchez will certainly want to face his old club, but the Chilean hasn't played a minute since recovering. In September, Inter Milan managed to overcome Udinese away (3:2), and support on home turf should ensure an easy progression to the next round of the Cup.
