Serie A Title Showdown: Inter vs. Napoli – Predicted Lineups, Team News & Betting Odds
The summit of Italian football takes center stage at the San Siro this Sunday as league leaders Inter Milan host defending champions Napoli. In a clash that could define the 2025/26 Scudetto race, Cristian Chivu looks to cement his legacy in his first full season as Nerazzurri boss against his predecessor and tactical mastermind, Antonio Conte.
With Inter currently holding a four-point lead over the third-placed Partenopei, the pressure is at an all-time high in Milan.
Match Information: Inter vs. Napoli
| Event | Serie A – Matchday 20 |
| Date | Sunday, January 11, 2026 |
| Kick-off Time | 20:45 CET / 14:45 ET |
| Venue | San Siro (Giuseppe Meazza), Milan |
| Referee | Daniele Doveri |
| Where to Watch > 📺 | DAZN (Italy), Paramount+ (USA), TNT Sports (UK) |
The Form Guide
Inter Milan: Under Cristian Chivu, the Nerazzurri are on a blistering six-game winning streak in the league. Their midweek 2-0 victory over Parma showcased a team in peak physical condition, led by the clinical Lautaro Martinez and the creative engine of Federico Dimarco.
Napoli: Despite being the reigning champions, Conte’s side has stumbled recently, dropping points in a 2-2 draw with Hellas Verona. However, they remain the most resilient defensive unit in the league.
Team News & Injury Updates
Inter Milan:
- Denzel Dumfries: Out (Ankle surgery, expected return March).
- Davide Frattesi: Doubtful (Muscle fatigue).
- Hakan Calhanoglu: Fully recovered and set to pull the strings in midfield.
Napoli:
- Kevin De Bruyne: Out (High-grade thigh tear).
- Romelu Lukaku: Out (Physical discomfort).
- Zambo Anguissa: Out (International duty – AFCON).
- Billy Gilmour: Out (Groin surgery recovery).
Predicted Lineups
Inter Milan (3-5-2)
Sommer; Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni; Darmian, Barella, Calhanoglu, Zielinski, Dimarco; Thuram, Lautaro Martinez.
Napoli (3-4-2-1)
Milinkovic-Savic; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Sam Beukema; Juan Jesus, Lobotka, McTominay, Spinazzola; Politano, Elmas, Hojlund.
Betting Odds & Prediction
Data from 365Scores suggests a tight affair, though the home advantage gives Inter a significant edge.
- Inter Milan Win: 1.77
- Draw: 3.60
- Napoli Win: 5.25
Our Prediction: While Napoli’s defense is world-class, the absence of Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku leaves a void in their transition play. Chivu’s Inter are playing with immense confidence. We expect a 1-0 victory for Inter, with Marcus Thuram finding the net.
What to Watch For
- The Apprentice vs. The Master: Cristian Chivu has admitted he has “a lot to learn” from Conte, but his tactical flexibility this season has been Inter’s secret weapon.
- The McTominay Threat: Scott McTominay has a knack for scoring against the Nerazzurri, having netted in both of his previous meetings against them.
- Defensive Dominance: Inter’s defenders have already combined for 7 goals this season. Watch for Dimarco’s overlapping runs to stretch Napoli’s backline.
For real-time updates, live scores, and heat maps for this match, head over to 365Scores.
