Prediction: AS Roma vs Inter Milan

Verdict: Draw & both teams to score – yes

Best Odds: 3/1

Bookmaker: bet365

One of the top matches in Week 2 of Serie A will take place this Saturday, as AS Roma will host Inter Milan in an authentic battle of giants. Both teams started the season with a win, and will try to make it two-for-two before the international break. Kick-off is scheduled for Saturday at 18:45 BST.

AS Roma

Roma were one of the top teams in the Italian Serie A last season after finishing second, and if we judge them by their performance in the season opener against Atalanta, there is no question they are well-equipped to repeat a title run. After topping one of the biggest surprises in the league, Roma seem ready to be Juventus’ biggest competition. And honestly, they have several things going their way. First of all, they kept most of the core intact. And even though they lost Mohamed Salah, they signed enough players to offset his departure. The defence looks vastly upgraded as well. But facing Inter will be their toughest test of the season, as Luciano Spalletti’s men could easily become one of the most improved sides in the league after they failed to reach the UEFA Europa League a few months ago. There is no question Roma will need to be at the top of their game to secure a win before the international break.

Team News

Roma have already confirmed three absentees for this game. Rick Karsdorp and Luca Pellegrini are dealing with knee injuries, while Bruno Peres is out with a groin problem.

On the other hand, Emerson’s presence in this game is far from a sure thing. The Brazilian has a knee injury, and will require a late-fitness test to determine his availability.

Inter Milan

It is quite hard to analyse Inter Milan without looking at what they did last season. However, that is exactly what we need to do. Inter underwent a massive makeover this summer, and aside from hiring Spalletti as head coach, they also added several new faces to the team. And while it might not be enough to put them at the top of the standings like their rivals AC Milan, Inter should – at least – be in contention for a Champions League berth down the stretch. There is no question they started the season on the right note after winning 3-0 against Fiorentina. But can they repeat a similar performance on the road against Roma? That is tough. Especially considering they have been one of the top teams in the competition over the past few years. It is still early in the season, but this is the kind of game that will indicate Inter if they are right to fight for the league title or not.

Team News

Inter Milan are close to full strength, and they should repeat the same starting XI they fielded in the season debut against Fiorentina last week.

Davide Santon is the only player ruled out, as the fullback is dealing with a calf problem.

Key Factors to Consider

• AS Roma are riding a three-game undefeated streak against Inter Milan, with two wins and one draw.
• In fact, Roma won 2-1 when both teams collided at Stadio Olimpico last season.
• We have seen both teams scoring in four of the past five meetings between them.
• Roma registered an impressive 16W 1D 2L mark at home last season.
• Meanwhile, Inter disappointed on the road thanks to a 8W 2D 9L mark.

Conclusion

Roma are one of the top candidates to dethrone Juventus in the Serie A this season, and they have a track record that supports that claim. However, Inter Milan looked like a legit threat in the season opener against Fiorentina, and could very well become one of the surprises of the league.

Considering both sides have a fair share of star power, I believe this game will end up in a draw even though both clubs will manage to find the back of the net.

Verdict: Draw & both teams to score – yes

Best Odds: 3/1

Bookmaker: bet365