Serie A: Mancini’s Inter Milan to come unstuck in Napoli scuffle

San Siro giants Inter have had their fair share of trials this term and, a Milan derby triumph aside, have disappointed on the big occasions, further enforcing the enticing punt on a splitting of the spoils.

Little Donkeys on defiant run

Napoli have somewhat sneaked up on their Scudetto rivals, but are undefeated since an opening day embarrassment to Sassuolo. A smattering of draws followed to contribute to a slow start, though new boss Maurizio Sarri has his guys in the groove now.

After winning all but one of their past 12 outings across all competitions, the Naples men are on an impressive run, though are still ambitious as an odds-on 4/6 to defeat Inter.

Though, should the Little Donkey’s come out tops, Algeria international Faouzi Ghoulam does not believe this early battle will be decisive in the title race.

The full back said: “We’ve all known each other for years and this is a huge help. Sarri fixed the defensive phase and things really picked up…It’s not a Scudetto decider because there are still many games to be played and we must try winning as many of them as possible to stay in the higher positions.”

Battle of the goal poachers

Gonzalo Higuain is the most formidable name on Napoli’s teamsheet, as the Argentina international has scored in six of his last seven in the southern Italian side’s sky blue shirt.

The South American goal machine also appears to enjoy netting against Inter, having hit two in as many of his last matches against them. So, backing the striker at 7/2 to strike first on home turf seems a prudent punt. While, skipper Marek Hamsik is 15/8 in the anytime market.

As for Inter’s attacking threat, fellow Argentine marksman Mauro Icardi found the net in this fixture last term, and has continued to be prolific in recent outings. This makes the sharpshooter superb value at 2/1 to be on target anytime, with exciting Adem Ljajic 7/2 in the same market.

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Coral’s top tip: A draw at 11/4 between these evenly matched teams is an excellent punt