As Inter U23 gears up to face Novara at Brianteo on January 4, 2026, the stakes couldn't be higher. The clash features two sides in desperate need of a turnaround. Inter is clinging to the top half of the table in sixth place with 27 points, while Novara languishes down in 15th with just 21 points and a staggering lack of wins. With only three victories in their last 19 matches, this contest is an opportunity for both teams to reclaim some lost pride and reassert themselves in the playoff conversation-or risk being left behind as the season progresses.
Let's dissect the recent forms: Inter U23 has plummeted through their last five outings-four losses and just one draw. Their inability to score-zero goals across those four defeats-is alarming. An average of just 8.2 shots per game combined with an expected goals (xG) tally that barely scrapes above 1 suggests a systemic issue in creativity and finishing quality. They have struggled to create clear chances, evidenced by their average possession being stuck around 48%, reflecting both a failure to control games and a deficiency in transitioning from defense into attack effectively.
Conversely, Novara arrives with similar malaise but has managed to find the net more consistently, evidenced by three draws over their last five matches. However, those ties mask underlying issues-their defensive frailty stands out like a sore thumb with an average of over two goals conceded per match during this stretch. Their recent xG against rating has skyrocketed; they've allowed too many quality scoring opportunities due to poor positioning and insufficient defensive structure.
Now let's zoom in on key tactical matchups:
For Inter U23, their front line must establish chemistry quickly if they are to exploit Novara's leaky backline. The pairing of strikers will play a crucial role here-will it be Matteo Spinaccé, who recently found some form despite the team's overall slump? He may need support from wingers stretching the pitch wide to create space for him in dangerous areas.
On the other hand, Novara's midfield must contain Inter's transitions from defense to attack if they're going to maintain any hope of staving off an inevitable defeat. Look for Alberti Thomas, who scored recently against Cittadella, to act as a fulcrum for any counterattacks that might catch Inter off-guard. His ability to press effectively could prove essential against Inter's center-backs who have been prone to lapses under pressure.
Set pieces will likely factor heavily as well; neither team has exhibited remarkable proficiency defensively during corners or free kicks-if either side can capitalize on these moments, it could sway the outcome dramatically. Both coaches are bound by necessity; Inter's manager will need his squad fully engaged defensively while finding ways to break down Novara's inconsistent defense.
Historically speaking, these two sides played out a tight affair back in August-a tense 1-1 draw that highlighted their mutual shortcomings rather than showcasing any tactical mastery or attacking flair. Fast forward to today: how much has really changed? Given both teams' current trajectories-the fear is palpable for fans hoping for progression rather than stagnation.
This brings us closer to what should be expected when they meet again on Sunday afternoon: if Novara can harness even marginal improvements defensively while leveraging their offensive potency-akin to how they responded after falling behind earlier this season-they could very well snatch points away from home despite not having won since early November.
Meanwhile, watch closely as Inter struggles without guidance offensively; it's now or never for them at home against opponents who appear similarly unsteady under pressure.
In summation: expect a tight affair that might tilt either way but ultimately see Inter U23 claim victory given their urgent need for three points amidst ongoing struggles within Novara's lineup-a gritty performance resulting perhaps from desperation pushing them past previous disappointments could secure it right at home ground where they've faltered lately more often than not!