Feyenoord's right-side combinations meet an Inter left side being reorganised for this competition. Birmingham and Millwall offer another contest between wide supply and direct receivers. In both matches, the defender's next handover matters as much as winning the first duel.
Read's support has helped Hadj Moussa find space, and Hadj Moussa followed his PSV goal with an assist at Sittard. Inter have their own demonstrated supply through Barella and the left side to Thuram and supporting arrivals. Feyenoord's recent long-ball and runner-tracking concessions give those connections a relevant target.
Bastoni's European suspension follows domestic participation, while Lautaro remains absent. Dimarco and Esposito made late appearances at Milan and are projected for larger roles; Pavard's training return adds a defensive option. I expect Feyenoord to seek right-side isolation while Inter alternate their defensive height and attack the space after recovery. That's why I'm expecting goals between Feyenoord and Inter.
Birmingham can find Millar and Roberts from midfield, with Stansfield connecting behind the central forward. Millwall can go directly through Dykes and bring Lisbie, Neghli and Cundle onto the next ball. Those receiving routes meet Birmingham's recent allowance of chances and Millwall's difficulty sustaining protection later in matches.
Metcalfe's suspension removes circulation and recovery work he performed against Derby. Priske and Beadle remain doubtful after their Lincoln appearances, with Ducksch a forward alternative and Allsop having played the second half in goal. The early contest should test Millwall's new midfield pairing, before attacking changes and the cover behind them become more influential. That's why I'm expecting goals between Birmingham and Millwall.
