Real Madrid: 3 keys to victory against Inter Milan on Champions League Matchday 1

3. Vinicius Junior needs to be the X-factor

Inter Milan have only conceded three goals so far in their limited season. They started with a clean sheet and then conceded three in two games. They have been defending diligently and the goals have been the results of defensive errors. One had the goalkeeper awkwardly exposed that led to a chipped finish, one was a deflected shot that left Samir Handanovic rooted to his spot. And, the final one they conceded was a well-worked volleyed finish.

The discussion proves that dismantling the Inter defense hasn’t been easy so far. But, they’ll indeed face a much-improved opposition in Real Madrid, and drawing premature conclusions may not be the wisest thing to do. However, there were phases of play where the defense struggled and it is pretty clear that they can be forced into committing mistakes that can be taken advantage of.

From what has been seen so far with both sides, my shout would be for Vinicius Junior to work magic with his pace and dribbling. Frustrating the Italian defense is the only answer. Real has one of the best forwards in Karim Benzema and his touch of brilliance is bound to be the difference given Vini supports him, as he has so far.

Inter are good with tracking runs, and their central defending too has been flawless other than one unlucky deflection that ended up in the net. Hence, the only way to get past is to deceive the defense using the tricks that Ancelotti’s men have done so well so far.

Playing a high-tempo attacking football coupled with some pace on the flanks should get the job done for Real Madrid.