Beyond stature and pedigree in this competition, the numbers alone make a strong case for Inter to win and win comfortably. Slavia Prague are enjoying a superb domestic campaign, unbeaten in 12 matches this season (W8, D4) and just a point behind rivals Sparta.

However, the European step up has historically been their undoing, and their recent record is bleak, failing to win in the main competition since September 2007 (D5, L7). Surrendering a two-goal lead to Bodø last round only adds to the doubts over their ability to cope at this level. Inter’s European home record is formidable, unbeaten in their last 16 matches here (W13, D3) and with dominance already established in this competition, they look strong favourites to extend that to 17.

With Inter expected to dominate possession, territory and attacking phases, an uptick in corner numbers looks a natural consequence of the match dynamic. They average 7.33 corners per game this season, clearing five in five of their six fixtures, with only the recent weekend trip to Cagliari falling short at four. Their style of play feeds directly into this output, with wing backs like Federico Dimarco and Carlos Augusto delivering consistent service from wide areas, and their midfield phase play sustains pressure inside the opposition half.

Slavia Prague’s defensive record on corners is extremely respectable on paper at just 2.92 conceded per game, but those figures have come against opponents far below the calibre of Inter. Even against Bodø/Glimt, who are still not on the same level, they conceded four corners on home soil. Inter’s pedigree in Europe and their capacity to stretch teams make this line not just a realistic target but one that should comfortably be within reach.

Marcus Thuram continues to establish himself as Inter’s most relentless attacking outlet and this selection plays directly into his profile. He averages 4.68 shots per 90 this season, with 1.75 testing the goalkeeper. He has hit the target in all but one of his competitive appearances, too.

Inter’s style of play is built around controlling the opposition half and funnelling chances into the penalty area either centrally or out wide. Even when Lautaro Martinez is the more clinical finisher, Thuram’s sheer shot volume ensures that the likelihood of him registering at least one on target remains high. Slavia’s defensive block will no doubt invite pressure, and with Inter averaging 5.33 shots on target this season, the expectation is that Thuram again delivers accuracy.

Doudera has been one of Slavia Prague’s most consistent foulers, averaging 1.67 per 90, with match returns of 2-4-2-1-2 this season. His likely assignment against Inter will be demanding, facing a 3-5-2 that generates constant overloads down the flanks.

Carlos Augusto, who wins 1.12 fouls per 90, will push forward repeatedly, while Lautaro Martinez, at 2.59 fouls won per 90, will likely drift left into his channel to draw contact. That dual threat is likely to pin Doudera deep and force him into reactive challenges.

Inter also average 58% possession across their matches this season, ensuring that Slavia defenders will spend long spells chasing the ball. The numbers highlight the risk, and with Inter’s opponents having committed 10.17 fouls per game already this campaign, Doudera is well positioned to contribute to those numbers.