Inter Milan eye ninth straight win over Atalanta
Inter Milan travel to Bergamo on Sunday night aiming to extend their remarkable run against Atalanta, with Lautaro Martinez once again the focal point of their attack. The league leaders remain unbeaten in their last 15 meetings with La Dea and confidence is high despite recent setbacks.
Marcus Thuram is expected to partner Martinez up front, while Gianluca Scamacca will carry Atalanta’s hopes of breaking the streak. Both sides have absentees, but Inter’s depth gives them the edge. Cristian Chivu’s men have won 12 of their last 14 league matches and continue to look like the team to beat in Serie A.
Atalanta’s resurgence under Raffaele Palladino has lifted them to ninth after victories over Cagliari and Genoa, plus a morale-boosting triumph against Chelsea. Yet their record against Inter remains a major obstacle. For the hosts, this fixture is a chance to prove they can compete with the very best.
The New Balance Arena will provide a lively backdrop, with home fans eager to see their side end a barren run against the Nerazzurri. Early exchanges are likely to be cautious, with Ederson and Musah tasked with controlling midfield for Atalanta, while Nicolò Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu will look to dictate tempo for Inter.
Key incidents could hinge on defensive lapses. Atalanta’s back line has been vulnerable, conceding in 63 percent of their matches this season. Inter, though dominant, have also shown cracks, with Bologna, Genoa and AC Milan all finding ways past Yann Sommer.
Martinez’s goalscoring form remains decisive. The Argentine has struck six times in his last five Serie A outings and boasts seven goals in previous meetings with Atalanta. His ability to exploit space and punish errors makes him the most likely difference-maker once again.
Should Atalanta find a breakthrough, Scamacca is their best bet. His physical presence and finishing ability have been crucial in recent wins, and he will test Inter’s defensive reshuffle.
The second half may see tactical adjustments, with Inter’s wing-backs Dimarco and Luis Henrique pushing higher to stretch the play. Atalanta could respond by introducing Charles De Ketelaere to add creativity. Missed chances could frustrate both sides as momentum shifts back and forth.
Late drama is possible, with Inter’s habit of striking late and Atalanta’s tendency to concede under pressure. Martinez, Thuram or even a set-piece could decide the contest in the closing stages.
For Inter, victory would cement their grip on top spot and underline their dominance over Atalanta. For the hosts, even a draw would represent progress against a side that has long had their number. Sunday night promises tension, goals, and another test of Inter’s title credentials.
