Inter vs. Dnipro: Key Issues and Decisions That Will Shape Europa League Game
Last time Inter met Dnipro was back in September, and it was the Italians who came out on top.
In a dour affair, Walter Mazzarri's side struggled to break down a disciplined Dnipro defence until right-back Danilo D'Ambrosio finally hit the opener in the 71st minute.
That one goal turned out to be enough to give the Nerazzurri the win and set them up nicely in the group.
Now, Roberto Mancini is back in charge at Inter and his task of guiding the side through the final two group games should not prove too difficult, considering the Italians are four points clear of the other three sides.
Dnipro, meanwhile, are in a scrap for the second qualifying place and will have to throw everything at their opponents in this game.
Here are the key issues that will shape the game.
How Seriously Mancini Wants to Take the Europa League
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Inter did well to record two wins and two draws in the group phase under Mazzarri.
They sit reasonably comfortably atop the group and can afford to cruise from this point and still go through.
Dnipro, on the other hand, really need something from the game at the San Siro if they are to stand a solid chance of progressing.
If Mancini decides not to place too much importance on this fixture, there could be a big opportunity for the Ukrainians to sneak an away win and move within touching distance of a place in the knockout rounds.
A full strength Inter side, however, would be favourites to see off their opponents at home.
Mancini may opt to show he is keen to make an impression in Europe and send out his best possible XI, or he might send out a weakened side and throw the door open for Dnipro.
Whether Denys Boyko Is at His Best
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If Dnipro's goalkeeper Denys Boyko is on top form, it will set a platform for his side to earn some points from this game.
He was in scintillating touch the last time these two teams met, making a number of brilliant saves to deny Inter's attackers until D'Ambrosio finally broke through.
If the 26-year-old shot-stopper can get his tail up early on in this match, the Nerazzurri forwards may find it very hard to hit the net once again.
Who Is Selected Up Front for Inter
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Mancini selected Mauro Icardi and Rodrigo Palacio up front for his return match in charge of the Nerazzuri against Milan.
The fact that neither scored may open the door for the other man in contention for a starting spot, Dani Osvaldo.
Icardi has hit four goals in the Europa League and seven in Serie A this season, so his position is seemingly safe, should the manager wish to play his best XI.
His countryman Palacio, however, is yet to find the back of the net this campaign.
While Palacio is a striker of undisputed class, he is no doubt under pressure from Osvaldo, who appeared to be in decent form before his long-term injury, from which he has now recovered.
Mancini's choice of forwards could have a major effect on the outcome of this game.
Yevhen Konoplyanka vs. Inter's Defence
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Dnipro's star man proved a handful last time these two sides met, and he will surely be a challenge for Inter's shuffled defence again.
Yevhen Konoplyanka is one of those lively and skilful forwards who can punish the most minor of errors, so the Nerazzurri back line will need to be on their guard.
Mancini has switched to four at the back, as opposed to Mazzarri's three-man last line.
That adjustment in tactics will mean the defenders in question may be vulnerable as they learn to adapt to the new system.
Ukrainian international Konoplyanka could be set for a big European night.
