Como (w) vs Inter Milan (w) on 25 January
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter in the Women’s Serie A, as Como (w) host Inter Milan (w) on January 25. With both teams eager to secure crucial points, this clash promises to be a fascinating battle of tactics, skill, and determination. Como, in their quest to climb up the league, will be aiming to upset the visitors, who are determined to maintain their momentum at the top of the table. The match will be played at the stunning Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, a venue that is sure to be buzzing with excitement. As the weather forecasts moderate temperatures, the conditions are expected to be perfect for high-paced, technical football. Let’s dive into the tactical breakdown, the players to watch, and the factors that will shape this key encounter.
Como (w): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Como (w) enter this match on the back of a mixed run of form, with 2 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses in their last 5 matches. They have been inconsistent, but their attacking play has shown glimpses of promise, particularly in the final third. Typically, Como deploy a 4-3-3 formation, favoring quick transitions and aggressive pressing. Their tactical philosophy revolves around ball retention and fluid movement in the final third, aiming to create overloads in wide areas. In their last match against Sassuolo (w), Como controlled 54% of possession but were inefficient in the final third, registering just 1 shot on target from 12 attempts. Their xG for the season stands at 1.4, highlighting a reliance on creating high-quality chances but struggling with clinical finishing.
Key players for Como include forward Valentina Giacinti, whose movement and finishing have been a constant threat. Giacinti is the focal point of their attack and will need to lead the line effectively against a resolute Inter defense. The midfield battle will be crucial, and captain Laura Fusetti, with her ability to dictate the tempo, will be key in breaking up Inter's build-up play. Defensively, Como has been vulnerable at times, especially on the counter, where their full-backs are often caught out of position. They’ll need to tighten up in these moments if they’re to have a chance against a side as potent as Inter Milan.
Inter Milan (w): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Inter Milan (w) have been in impressive form, with 4 wins and 1 loss in their last 5 outings. Their attacking play has been a standout feature, registering an average of 2.2 goals per game and an xG of 2.1. Inter's primary formation is a 4-3-3, with a heavy emphasis on high pressing, quick ball recovery, and fast transitions into attack. They dominate possession, averaging 62% per match, and often look to overload the wings with their pacey wingers and full-backs. Their offensive strength lies in the creativity of midfielders like Barbara Bonansea, who can both create and finish chances, and the electric speed of winger Manuela Giugliano, whose dribbling and crossing have been key to their success. In their last match against Fiorentina (w), Inter showcased their tactical flexibility, controlling 68% of possession and creating 19 shots on goal.
Their defense has been solid but not impenetrable. Inter have allowed 1.2 goals per game, which suggests they can be exposed by teams that counter with pace. However, they’ve managed to keep a clean sheet in 3 of their last 5 matches, which will be vital against Como's counter-attacks. Goalkeeper Katja Snoeijs will have to be on high alert, especially in dealing with crosses and set-pieces, where Como have shown signs of improvement. Inter's pressing game will be essential in neutralizing Como's midfield, and the battle between their midfielders and Como's ball-winning engine will determine much of the game’s flow.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The last 5 encounters between Como (w) and Inter Milan (w) have been dominated by the latter, with 4 victories and 1 draw in Inter's favor. Their most recent meeting, in September 2025, saw Inter clinch a comfortable 3-1 victory at home. In previous clashes, Inter’s high pressing and quick transitions have caused problems for Como, particularly exploiting spaces left in the full-back positions. Como’s resilience, however, cannot be underestimated. They have often been able to make it difficult for Inter, especially when the match has been tight. The psychological edge lies with Inter, who have been dominant in these matchups, but Como will take confidence from their ability to challenge top teams when at their best.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most intriguing battles will be between Como's right-back and Inter's left-winger. Manuela Giugliano's pace and creativity will test Como’s right-back to the limit, forcing them to balance defensive duties with attacking support. Como will need to get numbers behind the ball quickly and limit the space for Giugliano to operate, as her ability to cut inside and shoot or deliver crosses is one of Inter’s most potent attacking weapons.
Another critical battle will occur in midfield. Laura Fusetti and Como’s midfield will need to compete with Inter’s dynamic trio, led by Barbara Bonansea. Bonansea's vision and passing range make her a key playmaker for Inter, and Como's central midfielders will have to be disciplined in tracking her runs and breaking up the play. This battle in the middle of the park will determine which team can dominate possession and impose their style on the match.
Lastly, Como’s attacking unit, particularly Giacinti, will need to isolate Inter’s center-backs in one-on-one situations. If Como can exploit these individual duels with direct play and fast breaks, they might just find the gaps in Inter's defense that others have been unable to. However, Inter's defensive unit, led by captain Marta Carissimi, has been solid, and their experience will be critical in keeping Como's attackers at bay.
Match Scenario and Prediction
The most likely scenario for this match is a dominant display from Inter Milan (w), who will look to control possession, press high, and exploit spaces on the wings. Como (w) will attempt to counter-attack with pace, hoping to capitalize on any defensive lapses. Inter’s high pressing should limit Como’s time on the ball, making it difficult for them to build sustained attacks. Como’s best chance will come from set-pieces and quick transitions, but if Inter maintain their composure and continue their trend of high attacking efficiency, they should be able to claim a victory.
Prediction: Inter Milan (w) 2-0 Como (w). Inter will likely dominate possession, with the match being decided by clinical finishing and tactical discipline. Both teams will score at least once, but Como will struggle to break down Inter's defense consistently. Key statistics to watch: possession in the final third, xG, and pressing actions.
Final Thoughts
Inter Milan's attacking quality and pressing game make them favorites for this matchup, but Como’s resilience and counter-attacking style should make it an intriguing contest. If Como can contain Inter’s midfield and find space on the break, they might spring a surprise, but the tactical advantage currently lies with the visitors. Can Como defy the odds, or will Inter continue their march towards the top of the table? This is the question that will define the outcome of this crucial encounter.
