Match Details
Udinese v Inter – 3rd November 2013 – Kick Off 15:00 (CET) – Stadio Communale Fruili – Referee: D.Mazza
The story so far……
Udinese: It’s been a strange start to the season for the Zebrette. After suffering disappointing results at Chievo and Atalanta, Francesco Guidolin’s men relied on their incredible unbeaten home record to rebound with two victories at the Fruili. Another disappointing performance followed at the San Siro and the very next week their home record was finally ended, by the steam train that is Rudi Garcia’s Roma. Despite those setbacks, a win in Sassuolo on Wednesday has the northerners heading back home determined to start another long unbeaten run. Having scored just 11 goals in 10 games many experts feel it’s only a matter of time before Di Natale and Luis Muriel rubber stamp a promising partnership with goals.
Inter: These are testing times for Walter Mazzarri in his first season with the Nerazzurri. Injuries are beginning to mount up. Samir Handanovic and Mauro Icardi are the most recent additions to the treatment table. Ishak Belfodil’s suspension (confirmed after a failed appeal on Friday) together with Diego Milito’s continued absence has left Mazzarri short of options up front. Luckily for the Inter coach, Rodrigo Palacio is in such good form he has often been able to paper over the cracks during recent weeks. Hugo Campagnaro’s continued loss in defence is a growing concern and the 10 goals Inter have surrendered in that period provides further evidence of just how important the ex Napoli man is. With one league win in their last five, a negative result on Sunday could open an insurmountable gap between Inter and the top 3.
Probable formations, Injuries and suspensions.
The Key Men
Udinese: When looking at the Zebrette it’s easy to focus on Antonio Di Natale and Luis Muriel whilst forgetting the other nine men on the pitch. Despite the fantastic talent of these two forwards, it’s the defensive aspect of Guidolin’s side which stands out when playing on home turf. The Brazilian pairing of Danilo and Naldo have been extremely impressive this season, both a contributing factor to the fact that Udinese have conceded just three goals in five matches at the Fruili. They combine for an average of 12.5 clearances per game, two blocked shots and five tackles. Many of Udinese’s dangerous counter attacks are started by these two, over ten long balls are played a game from this pairing alone. Previously linked with Inter Danilo has even chipped in with a goal. Inter would be very wise to occupy these two defenders come Sunday afternoon.
Inter: Ricky Alvarez – Inter’s unquestionable star of the season so far. The Argentinian was inches away from capping another superb performance with a stunning winner on Tuesday against Atalanta. ‘Maravilla’ has collected three goals and three assists with a string of to notch outings this season. His role within the team has become so integral to Mazzarri that the coach has been able to slot Ricky into a central midfield position at times due to his accurate passing and new found physicality. With the well documented struggles of Mateo Kovacic and Fredy Guarin Mazzarri will be hoping the languid South American can continue his blistering form at the Fruili.
Stat Attack – All the below stats were obtained from OPTA, the leading data provider for football statistics
Inter are yet to lose away from home in Serie A. Winning twice and drawing 3 times.
Inter have the best attack in Serie A away from home. The Nerazzurri score an average of 3 goals a game away from home.
Ricky Alvarez scored his 10th goal in Serie A on Tuesday night, the third against Atalanta. Not forgetting he scored at the Fruili two seasons ago.
Inter aced 8 shots in their last game against Atalanta, which is more than in any other Serie A game this season.
Prior to their 0-1 defeat against Roma, Udinese were unbeaten in their previous 22 home league games.
Inter have drawn their last 3 away matches in Serie A.
There have been under 2.5 goals scored in Udinese’s last 4 home games in Serie A.
Inter have been drawing at both half time and full time in their last 3 away matches in Serie A.
Udinese have seen over 2.5 goals in 7 of their last 8 matches against Inter in all competitions.
Don’t forget to complete your prematch experience by listening to the ONLY 100% Inter podcast in English available. Listen to this weeks episode here
