Rome, Sep 11 (AP) The highly anticipated Derby d'Italia is set to take center stage this Saturday as Juventus welcomes Inter Milan to Turin. The match holds special significance with the reunion of the Thuram brothers, Marcus and Khephren, representing Inter and Juventus respectively. This family affair will be the first time both brothers start for their respective teams in this iconic Serie A clash.
This game is noteworthy not just for its familial connections but also for marking the debut of the refcam technology in the Italian league. Fans will experience the action from a new perspective, courtesy of a small camera mounted on the referee.
Marcus and Khephren are the sons of distinguished former defender Lilian Thuram, who famously helped Juventus claim several trophies and was part of the 1998 World Cup-winning French team.
In terms of current form, Juventus has started the season strong with two consecutive victories. Inter Milan, meanwhile, showcased its strength in a 5-0 thrashing of Torino but faltered against Udinese, losing 2-1 at home.
Notably, Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic is in excellent form, having scored in both of his team's League matches. He added another goal for Serbia in a recent international fixture against Latvia, although he was kept quiet in Serbia’s heavy defeat against England.
Key Matchups Expected Former Leicester striker Jamie Vardy is expected to take the field for Cremonese in their visit to Hellas Verona. Cremonese is riding high on momentum after two consecutive wins, including a stunning victory against AC Milan.
Milan's match-up against Bologna promises intrigue with the possibility of a Rabiot-Rowe face-off. The two once-clashed teammates from Marseille may not start, but their presence could add to the drama.
Defending Serie A champions Napoli face Fiorentina, with Moise Kean ready to add firepower to their attack.
Players to Watch Luka Modric will play his first match as a 40-year-old as Milan faces Bologna. The veteran midfielder remains a pivotal playmaker, recently contributing to Croatia's emphatic win over Montenegro.
Key debuts might include several deadline day signings such as Rasmus Hojlund at Napoli, Manuel Akanji at Inter, Lois Openda at Juventus, and Christopher Nkunku at Milan.
Injury Concerns AC Milan's Rafael Leao continues his recovery from a right calf injury sustained in a Cup game last month. Napoli's defensive ranks are depleted with Amir Rrahmani and Romelu Lukaku both sidelined due to injuries.
Off the Field UEFA is set to make a decision regarding the possibility of a Serie A fixture between Milan and Como, planned for February, being played in Perth, Australia. This maneuver would circumvent the scheduling conflict with the Winter Olympics opening ceremony in Milan.
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