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Inter - Siena
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Stadio Meazza


Inter have scheduled a Scudetto party for this Sunday, but they are still rocking from derby defeat as Siena arrive full of confidence and under no pressure.

Last week’s 2-1 loss against Milan could hardly have been more painful for Roberto Mancini’s men. Having dreamed of securing the Scudetto under the noses of their city rivals, the Nerazzurri were instead forced to watch the Diavolo celebrate as Roma cut their lead to three points. It will all prove to be academic if Inter secure a routine win over mid-table Siena, but anything less than three points here would set up a gut-wrenching final-day trip to Parma.

While there’s no need to panic with just one win needed to clinch the silverware, Inter are limping towards the finishing line and there are clouds gathering. Mancini’s future is shrouded in mystery with the tactician’s relationship with President Massimo Moratti looking increasingly tempestuous. If this is to be the end of his reign, Mancio will want the Inter fans to remember him as the man who paraded the Scudetto around San Siro rather than the despairing figure who prowled the sideline last weekend.

Siena have already won their title by securing another season amongst the elite. The gutsy minnows achieved safety well ahead of schedule and are comfortably nestled in mid-table. Last weekend’s 1-0 win over Juventus was the icing on the cake for Coach Mario Beretta and highlighted the improvements he has made over the last year.

The visitors may have nothing to play for, but they won’t be completely short of motivation. Despite his success, Beretta has been haunted by rumours that former Cagliari boss Marco Giampaolo could replace him at the end of the season. What better way for Beretta to make his case than following a triumph over Juve with an earth-shattering win over Inter? It would certainly win him Brownie points with general manager Lombardi Stronati, who has revealed that he is a Roma fan.

Inter were tested by the Tuscans back in Week 18 when they won by the odd goal in five. Controversial refereeing decisions helped the Beneamata squeeze the three points through a Zlatan Ibrahimovic brace but they came under fire for their unconvincing performance.

The leaders have had to deal with more than their fair share of absentees this term. Swedish striking star Ibrahimovic remains a big loss, but Mancini has faith in teen sensation Mario Balotelli, who is likely to partner the reliable Julio Cruz. Defenders Ivan Cordoba and Walter Samuel saw their seasons finish prematurely, so Nelson Rivas continues his learning curve. Luis Figo is still sidelined and may have played his last game for the Nerazzurri.

By contrast, Beretta has been very fortunate with injuries and defender Valerio Bertotto is his only missing man.

Keep an eye on: Julio Cruz (Inter) – The 13-goal hitman has stepped up in the absence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and has three goals in his last three outings.

Last season: Inter 2-0 Siena

Form guide: Inter (W W W W L) Siena (D D L D W)


Inter (probable): Julio Cesar; Maicon, Materazzi, Rivas, Chivu; Vieira, Zanetti, Cambiasso, Stankovic; Balotelli, Crespo

Siena (probable): Manninger; Ficagna, Portanova, Loria, De Ceglie; Vergassola, Codrea, Galloppa; Kharja, Locatelli, Maccarone

Ref: To follow...

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After the victory over Lazio in Roma, I expect the Nerrazzurri to play a good game on Sunday, as opposed to the stinker against Milano.

Better lineup with more pride. However some of those players against Lazio should be considered, but they won't.