Inter Milan vs Udinese: Serie A Match Preview, Predictions, and Key Players to Watch

Inter Milan aim to build on their stunning 5-0 victory over Torino as they host Udinese at San Siro this Sunday in their quest to reclaim the Serie A title. Under new manager Cristian Chivu, the Nerazzurri delivered a commanding performance on the opening matchday, signaling their intent for the 2025-26 season. Meanwhile, Udinese, led by Kosta Runjaic, face an uphill battle after a draw in their opener and a poor recent record against Inter.

Inter Milan’s Dream Start Under Chivu

Inter Milan kicked off their 2025-26 Serie A campaign with a statement, thrashing Torino 5-0. Alessandro Bastoni opened the scoring, Marcus Thuram netted twice, captain Lautaro Martinez added his usual goal, and new signing Ange-Yoan Bonny sealed the rout. Chivu, a 2010 treble-winner and former Parma coach, has seamlessly transitioned into the Inter hotseat, replacing Simone Inzaghi. Despite a lackluster Club World Cup stint, Inter’s emphatic league return has reignited hopes of recapturing the Scudetto.

With upcoming Champions League clashes against Arsenal and Liverpool, and a looming Derby d’Italia against Juventus post-international break, Inter are focused on maintaining momentum. They boast an impeccable record against Udinese, winning their last six encounters, including three victories last season. A seventh straight win over the Friulani seems likely.

Udinese’s Struggles and Hopes for an Upset

Udinese, under second-year coach Kosta Runjaic, showed promise in pre-season with three consecutive wins and a Coppa Italia victory over Carrarese. However, their Serie A opener ended in a 1-1 draw against Hellas Verona, with Thomas Kristensen’s header earning a point. The Bianconeri’s form has been shaky, with just one win in their last 12 league games, and their record at San Siro is dismal, losing their last eight away matches against Inter.

Despite their underdog status, Udinese will look to defy expectations. Runjaic’s squad is without goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, banned for illegal betting, with Razvan Sava stepping in. Matteo Palma’s potential absence due to injury could further weaken their defense.

Team News and Lineups

Inter Milan are set to welcome back Hakan Calhanoglu and Francesco Pio Esposito, who missed the Torino game due to suspensions. New signings Luiz Henrique, Andy Diouf, Petar Sucic, and Ange Bonny, who followed Chivu from Parma, add fresh energy to an aging squad. While Sucic started against Torino, Calhanoglu’s return may see him relegated to the bench. Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram will lead Inter’s attack, aiming to exploit Udinese’s defensive vulnerabilities.

Udinese are likely to field Keinan Davis and Iker Bravo up top, with recent signing Adam Buksa and former Inter star Alexis Sanchez expected on the bench. Runjaic will need a tactical masterclass to counter Inter’s firepower.

Key Battles and Predictions

Inter’s attacking duo of Martinez and Thuram will test Udinese’s makeshift defense, particularly with Sava in goal. Calhanoglu’s return bolsters Inter’s midfield creativity, while Udinese’s hopes rest on Davis and Bravo capitalizing on limited chances. Given Inter’s dominant home record and Udinese’s struggles, a comfortable Inter victory is on the cards.

Prediction: Inter Milan 3-0 Udinese

Why This Match Matters

For Inter, this match is a chance to solidify their title credentials and maintain their perfect start. For Udinese, it’s an opportunity to pull off a shock result and kickstart their season. With Chivu’s evolution in full swing and Runjaic desperate for points, San Siro is set for an intriguing clash.