Inter Milan and Juventus played in what shaped up to be an early season title tilt. Inter came into the weekend top of the table with 18 points from 18, having only given up 2 goals all season. Juventus’ early draw at Fiorentina, in which they were lucky to get out of the Artemio Franchi with anything, meant they were 2 points behind.
Juventus’ 2-1 win catapulted them back above Inter to the top of the table. Paulo Dybala scored early before Lautaro Martinez equalized from the spot for Inter Milan. Inter held on while Juventus restricted them to only 3 shots between the 30th and 80th minute before giving out and Gonzalo HiguaĂn won it late for Juventus. The shot map shows that neither team created many truly great chances, but Juventus did just enough for an important 3 points.
The running xG plot makes it appear that Juventus were worthy winners, but our expected result and goal difference plots tell a different story. Juventus did double up on Inter’s non-penalty xG, but 0.71+1 Pen suggests Inter were perhaps unlucky to not find a second goal, while Juventus over performed their xG by finding that all important late HiguaĂn goal.
Juventus ran away with the title last season, but with Inter under Conte looking strong, and Atalanta’s attack potentially allowing for a title run of their own, this could turn into a tricky title defense. Napoli still look good, as evidenced by the victory over defending European champions Liverpool, and AS Roma are still close, although they continue to be decimated by injuries. The Serie A title race should be one to watch this season!
Becker Sports Graphics 