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aturday's Serie A predictions including Genoa vs. Inter Milan

sportsmole.co.uk, 17 August 2024, 05:20
Genoa vs. Inter Milan (Saturday, 5.30pm)

Having blown away the competition last term, Inter Milan's Serie A title defence gets under way on Saturday, as the Scudetto holders meet Genoa at Stadio Luigi Ferraris.

While Inter will be aiming to retain top spot this season, their hosts are intent on breaking into Italy's top 10.

We say: Genoa 0-2 Inter Milan

Inter have won each of their last five Serie A openers, and having opted for continuity this summer, they should make it six against a Genoa side lacking last season's main men up front.

Parma vs. Fiorentina (Saturday, 5.30pm)

Back in the big time for 2024-25, Parma make their Serie A return on Saturday evening, when they welcome Fiorentina to Stadio Tardini.

While the Gialloblu topped Italy's second tier last season, their Tuscan counterparts again missed out on silverware by the narrowest of margins, before bidding goodbye to their coach.

We say: Parma 1-1 Fiorentina

Only once in their history have Fiorentina and Parma faced each other on Serie A's opening matchday, and 24 years after the previous meeting they will begin a brand-new season with a draw.

While the hosts are familiar with Fabio Pecchia's setup, their visitors will be adapting to a new tactical framework under Raffaele Palladino and still have some work to do in the transfer market.

Empoli vs. Monza (Saturday, 7.45pm)

After surviving by the skin of their teeth last season, Empoli start a new Serie A campaign on Saturday, as Monza pay a visit to Stadio Castellani.

Both sides are under new management, and having recently progressed in the Coppa Italia they now seek a swift start in the league.

We say: Empoli 1-0 Monza

Following such a dramatic denouement to last season at Stadio Castellani, it might be a more low-key start to Serie A's 2024-25 campaign on Sunday.

One goal could decide the game, and as Empoli's young forwards looked sharp in the cup last week, the home side should get under way with a win.

AC Milan vs. Torino (Saturday, 7.45pm)

Having impressed in pre-season, AC Milan make their return to competitive action on Saturday evening, when Torino visit San Siro.

Both clubs are under new management for the upcoming Serie A campaign, with Paulo Fonseca particularly seeking a fast start to life in his new post.

We say: AC Milan 2-0 Torino

With a few tactical tweaks, Milan could have the squad to make a sustained title challenge, and they are set to continue their San Siro dominance of Torino.

Forward options including Luka Jovic and Samu Chukwueze can make an impact from the bench, while finding the net is often more of a challenge for the Granata.

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