Inter Milan vs CFR Cluj-Napoca Europa League last 32 Preview Feb 14, 2013
Milan's fall from grace after the Mourinho glory days was confirmed by their performances across last season, which saw them finish in an underwhelming sixth in the Serie A. It meant qualification for the Europa League; taken in isolation, that could be seen as an achievement for any team, but for a club of Inter's fame, this season's Europe campaign will have been undermined by the constant realisation that Europe's real big boys - Barcelona, ManchesterUnited, Real Madrid etc. - are playing in a different competition.
On the brighter side, the Europa League gives Inter a real opportunity to add to their trophy bank, and sure enough they're third favourites to win the competition at 14/1 with Coral and Ladbrokes. The Serie A has been reasonably kind to Andrea Stramaccioni's men this season: they're currently twelve points off top spot in fourth, with plenty of time left in the season to move up the ladder. Recent form however - three wins in ten games in all competitions - suggests this tie could be closer than the bookies reckon.
Unlike Inter, Cluj are a team that need some introduction. A former lowly force in Romanian football, FCR Cluj are now essentially Romania's best team thanks to the financial backing of Árpád Pászkány, who took the reigns in 2002. They've been a regular fixture in European competition since, and nearly got through their Champions League group. Ultimately Galatasaray went through on goal difference, but it is fair to say that the 2012-13 European season has been one that Cluj have enjoyed so far. A trip to Inter Milan won't scare them.
Competition: Europa League last 32:
Match: Inter Milan vs CFR Cluj-Napoca
Date: Thursday 14 February
Kickoff: 18:00 GMT
Venue:
Live/Repeat: Live
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