Julien Laurens' Weekend Soccer Preview: Inter Milan's Test and AFCON Hosts Under Pressure
ESPN's Julien Laurens previews the key soccer fixtures to watch this weekend, headlined by a crucial Serie A test for league leaders Inter Milan against in-form Atalanta. The spotlight also shines on Africa Cup of Nations hosts Morocco, who face a high-stakes clash with Mali. From the Premier League's Boxing Day showdown to a tense Edinburgh derby in Scotland, this guide highlights the tactical battles, managerial pressures, and must-see matches across Europe and Africa.
As the festive season delivers a packed schedule of global soccer, ESPN analyst Julien Laurens has identified the weekend's most compelling fixtures. The action spans from a critical test for Italian giants Inter Milan to the intense pressure of the Africa Cup of Nations on host nation Morocco. This preview breaks down the key narratives, tactical matchups, and predictions for the games you can't afford to miss.
Serie A Showdown: Atalanta vs. Inter Milan
The standout fixture in Italy sees league leaders Inter Milan travel to face a resurgent Atalanta side. Under new manager Raffaele Palladino, Atalanta have been transformed, securing six wins in their last seven matches across all competitions. This match represents the sternest test yet of Palladino's tenure at the Gewiss Stadium.
Inter Milan, led by Cristian Chivu, sit atop the Serie A table but have not always been convincing. Their position has been bolstered by stumbles from rivals AC Milan and AS Roma. The attacking duo of Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martínez has been instrumental in Inter's campaign, often rescuing results. However, coming off a loss to Bologna in the Italian Supercoppa, Inter must improve to withstand Atalanta's momentum and maintain their lead.
AFCON Pressure on Hosts Morocco
The Africa Cup of Nations continues with a pivotal Group A clash in Rabat, where hosts Morocco take on Mali. Morocco opened their campaign with a nervy victory over Comoros, but manager Walid Regragui will demand a more polished performance. A win on Friday would secure their passage to the knockout stages, applying immense pressure on their opponents.
Mali, considered one of the tournament's dark horses, suffered a devastating late draw against Zambia in their opener. Another poor result would leave them on the brink of elimination. Their strength lies in a formidable midfield featuring talents like Mamadou Sangare and Mahamadou Doumbia, setting up a crucial battle in the center of the park against Morocco's Sofyan Amrabat.
Premier League's Boxing Day Focus
Boxing Day in the Premier League features a solitary but significant fixture at Old Trafford. Manchester United, missing the injured Bruno Fernandes, host Newcastle United with both managers under scrutiny. Ruben Amorim's United have been inconsistent at home, while Eddie Howe's Newcastle have managed just one away league win all season. The match offers a chance for one side to build much-needed momentum.
Other European Highlights
Beyond England and Italy, the weekend offers intriguing contests across the continent. In Portugal, José Mourinho's unbeaten league record with Benfica faces a test at Braga as they attempt to close the gap on leaders FC Porto. In Scotland, the Edinburgh derby between Hibernian and league-leading Heart of Midlothian promises intensity, with Hearts aiming to extend their surprising six-point advantage at the summit.
Weekend Predictions and Final Thoughts
Laurens anticipates a tightly contested draw between Atalanta and Inter Milan, with Atalanta's defensive organization nullifying Inter's attack. For the AFCON clash, he predicts Morocco will leverage home advantage to secure a narrow 2-1 victory over Mali. In the Premier League, Manchester United are tipped to edge past Newcastle in a close encounter. The weekend's action underscores the global nature of the sport, with stories of title races, managerial pressure, and international glory unfolding simultaneously from Bergamo to Rabat.
