Borussia Dortmund vs Inter Milan: Match Preview, Predictions, Team News, Lineups
In a crucial clash on Wednesday, Borussia Dortmund meets Inter Milan as both teams vie for a position in the Champions League knockout stage. The matchup features two historic clubs, each aiming to improve their standing in the group phase as the countdown to the final matchday begins.
Borussia Dortmund’s Position
Dortmund currently boasts 11 points in the Champions League standings, one point behind their visitors, Inter Milan. However, a recent 2-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur has complicated their chances of automatic qualification for the last 16. Currently, they sit in 16th place with one crucial game left.
Despite the loss, Dortmund remains optimistic about finally securing their 100th victory in European competition. This season, they have found the net 19 times, matching the attacking firepower of teams like Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain.
Home Advantage at Signal Iduna Park
At Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund has established a reputation for dominance. They have lost only one of their last 21 home Champions League matches. Their latest domestic success, a 3-0 victory over Union Berlin, keeps them fighting for the Bundesliga title, although they trail Bayern Munich by eight points.
Inter Milan’s Recent Struggles
Conversely, Inter Milan, who are ahead in their head-to-head record with two wins in prior meetings, is attempting to halt a three-match losing streak in the Champions League. Their last setback came against Arsenal, where they fell 3-1 at San Siro, dropping them to 14th in the table. Despite this, they have already secured a playoff place and remain in contention for the top eight.
Key Player Insights
- Dortmund: Julian Brandt remains a vital player, holding an unbeaten record in his last 19 Champions League appearances at home.
- Inter: Lautaro Martinez has netted four goals this season, and Manuel Akanji returns to face his former club.
Injury Concerns and Expected Lineups
Dortmund will be without defender Daniel Svensson due to suspension, while Niklas Süle and Marcel Sabitzer are injured. Ramy Bensebaini may take Svensson’s place in defense. Inter will have to manage without key players Hakan Calhanoglu, Denzel Dumfries, and Nicolo Barella, all sidelined by injuries.
| Team | Possible Starting Lineup |
|---|---|
| Borussia Dortmund | Kobel; Anton, Can, Schlotterbeck; Ryerson, Bellingham, Nmecha, Bensebaini; Adeyemi, Brandt; Guirassy |
| Inter Milan | Sommer; Akanji, Acerbi, Bastoni; Henrique, Sucic, Zielinski, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Thuram, Martinez |
Match Prediction
As both teams strive for crucial points, this encounter could likely end in a draw. Borussia Dortmund’s robust home record may balance out against Inter Milan’s strong away performance, indicating a probable scoreline of 1-1. Both clubs may face challenges in securing direct qualification to the knockout round, making this a must-watch match for fans and analysts alike.
