Inter Milan vs Benfica Lisbon: Football Prediction & Betting Tips. Europe – Champions League
Despite suffering the bitter taste of defeat as finalists last season, Inter Milan, Italy’s premier football giants, are back with a vengeance. As they gear up to welcome Benfica Lisbon in a spicy 2023-24 Champions League Group D encounter, a palpable tension can be felt in the air. After all, the quest for victory in this group – a competitive pool featuring RB Salzburg and Real Sociedad – remains a driving force for both clubs.
It was a gripping spectacle when Inter squared off against Real Sociedad. With the match seemingly slipping away, Inter clawed their way back to secure a 1-1 draw, thanks to a last-gasp strike in the 87th minute. Their domestic prowess continues to dazzle, as they perch atop Serie A – though it’s a precarious lead, with only goal difference separating them from their city rivals, Milan. Their breathtaking form is evidenced by their 19-goal tally in just seven league games. And, to emphasize their dominance, they breezed past Salernitana 4-0, with Martinez orchestrating the rout. This dynamo has already bagged nine league goals, including the critical equalizer against Sociedad.
History does lean in Inter’s favor. With a commendable record of four victories in their last five home Champions League matches, they’re a force to reckon with. Memories of a thrilling 3-3 stalemate with Benfica in the quarter-finals of the previous season still linger. But Inter held the upper hand, having clinched the away leg 2-0. Thus, the side affectionately termed ‘The Well-Cherished One’ hungers for another triumph against Benfica.
Benfica’s Uphill Battle
Benfica, however, find themselves at a crossroads. Their campaign didn’t kick off on the right note, succumbing 2-0 to RB Salzburg on home turf. The onus of bouncing back is immense; another defeat could be calamitous. Domestically, they’ve been a revelation, sitting just one point adrift of Primera League leaders, Sporting Lisbon. Their morale was significantly boosted after edging past Porto 1-0, preserving their unbeaten streak in the league. But the Champions League tells a different story. Three games without tasting victory, including two skirmishes against Inter, have cast shadows of doubt. However, their ten-game unbeaten streak on foreign soil in the Champions League offers a glimmer of hope, though this might be under threat at San Siro.
Crucial Takeaways: Inter Milan vs. Benfica Lisbon
- Inter masterminded Benfica’s Champions League exit last season.
- In their recent home clashes in the Champions League, Inter have emerged victorious in four out of five.
- Benfica’s Champions League journey has seen them go winless in three matches, with Inter being their nemesis in two of those encounters.
- Martinez is Inter’s golden boy, netting four times in his latest outing.
- Serie A sees Inter reigning supreme.
In Conclusion
As Inter Milan and Benfica Lisbon lock horns, predictions lean towards an intense battle. With both teams striving for supremacy, who will emerge as the winner? For the best betting tips and insights into this clash, check out our top-rated bookmakers for sports betting. Dive in, and may the odds be in your favor!