Atletico Madrid Vs Inter Milan: Stay Alert Despite Being Superior

Inter Milan remain vigilant despite being seeded in the second round of the Champions League last 16 against Atletico Madrid. (X/@Inter)

JAKARTA - Inter Milan became the seed when they played the second match of the last 16 of the Champions League against Atletico Madrid. Despite the possibility of qualifying for the quarter-finals, Inter remained vigilant in the duel at Atletico at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium, Thursday, March 13, 2024 in the morning WIB.

Inter is unstoppable in the Italian Serie A competition. Throughout 2024 when the competition entered the second half, Inter always made wins in various competitions. They recorded 13 wins during 13 matches.

In domestic competitions, Inter routinely get three points so they are comfortable perched at the top of the standings. Even the Nerazzurri are getting closer to the Scudetto after a 1-0 win over Bologna.

Performance consistency is very well displayed by Inter. Now, Simone Inzaghi's team is looking at matches that are no less crucial, the Champions League.

In the first match at home, they were 1-0 ahead of Marko Arnautovic's goal. However, the victory has not provided an Inter guarantee to qualify for the quarter-finals. The reason is that there is still a second match to be held at Atletico's home.

Inter only need a draw to ensure the top eight tickets. The problem is, Atletico won 2-0 enough to turn things around.

This is what Inzaghi refuses to underestimate Los Rojiblancos who will go all out while playing at home.

"Atletico is a different team when playing at home compared to when they were away. We know the quality of the players and coaches. So, we do our best as much as possible," said Inzaghi.

"Atmospheres in Metropolitano will have an influence on the match. But we have targeted to stay in the Champions League," he said.

On the other hand, Atletico's condition is indeed worrying and coach Diego Simeone is entering a difficult time. They only won once in the previous five matches.

They were eliminated in the Copa del Rey after losing against Athletic Bilbao. Finally, Atletico were humiliated by a team from the Cadiz relegation zone with a fairly convincing score, 2-0. This series of poor results made Atletico and Simeone receive strong criticism.

"Opini clearly reflects our achievements. So we can't deny it," said Simeone.

"Whatever it is, we will face one of the best teams in Europe. However, I put my trust in the players. I know the players will go all out in this match," he said.

In that match, Simeone did not field the best squad following the absence of Jose Maria Gimenez and Thomas Lemar.

Meanwhile, striker Antoine Griezmann is doubtful of being able to appear after missing the match against Cadiz. Likewise defender Cesar Azpilicueta is also threatened with absence.

Meanwhile, Inter will join a complete team. Including midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu can return to play. He has also played against Bologna.

With full strength, Inter are slightly seeded. However, Atletico can still make a surprise to get rid of the 2023 Champions League finalists.

Forecast Of The Matches Of Atletico Madrid (5-3-2): Oblak; Molina, Savic, Witsel, Hermoso, Lino; Saul, De Paul, Koke; Depay, Morata

Inter Milan (3-5-2): Sommer; Pavard, De Vrij, Bastoni; Darmian, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Thuram, Martinez