Is it only me or is the Serie A fast losing its appeal. Watching the Barcelona vs Inter match i have to admit that i was very disappointed. Right before the macth i was sure of one of the most entertaining fixtures of match day 5 however, that was not to be. Inter provided very little in terms of goal threats and after Barca’s seond goal, the wind seemed to have been knocked off Mourinho’s sails.
Even after making some very good changes in the second half, Jose’s body language spoke volumes. His animated character was no where to be seen and i once again have to question if he is really happy in Milan. It was just a night to forget for the Nerazzurri. Their defeat now means that they have to beat an unpredictable Rubin Kazan on the final match day of the group stages to have a chance of progressing to the knock-out stages.
The games don’t come any easier either. This Sunday they face a very confident Fiorentina who are on cloud nine after finally qualifying for the knock- out stages after 9 years. The Florence side who have some impressive players in their ranks like Gilardino, Mutu, Vargas and Jovetic will definitely go all out for the victory that would decrease their deficit in the title race.
Inter on the other hand will be without their fullback Maicon who has been suspended for two matches after he abused an official in their 3-1 win over Bologna last Saturday. Inter play-maker Wesley sneijder is also a doubt for Sunday’s game. The Dutchman’s services have been dearly missed and Inter’s medical staff are in a race against time to ensure that he features in the match.
Another big blow to Mourinho is the abscence of his defender Davide Santon. Santon who is recuperating from Knee surgery is out of action for another three weeks at least. These issues will be on Mourinho’s mind as he prepares to host Fiorentina. However, what Inter has going for them is their home advantage. Inter are a very difficult team to beat at home and most teams know this.
Another factor aiding their advantage is that most of their players will be looking to build their damaged confidence before travelling to Turin the following weekend to play Juventus. Inter know that a win will be a huge confidence boost to their scudetto campaign. Despite all these worries, never rule out Mourinho. I expect him to put his best team out and give them strict instructions to win the match at all costs. That is why i am still confident of an Inter victory.
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