Inter boss Simone Inzaghi credits their victory against Barcelona earlier in the season as giving the team confidence in the Champions League. The Nerazzurri are through to the semi-finals of the competition after a 3-3 draw against Benfica, with city rivals AC Milan awaiting them. Speaking with ITV after the match (as quoted by FCInternews), Inzaghi talked about the difference between Inter’s play in the league and in Europe, and why beating Barcelona helped them believe:
“It’s a great satisfaction to share with players, club and fans. A great result that we wanted and obtained with merit against a team of great value.”
A term to describe the boys?
“Historic. For what we are doing in Champions League and the Coppa Italia, it’s great. In the league we left points behind in a crazy league with so many close games, however, we are happy and we want to continue like this.”
Heart or head? What was important tonight?
“It was the approach that was important. We had a great match, creating a lot. We knew that in the second half Benfica would lift their play but we were good at covering the field in all actions.”
Where did the squad realize it could grow in the Champions League?
“Undoubtedly, the Barcelona game gave us great self-confidence because we played as equals in a very important stadium against a great team that was the favorite on the eve of the match.”
Now Milan:
“Absolutely, a very heartfelt derby. We know what it means for all of us, we will face it great and in the best way.”
On the fans:
“I have to be honest: in my eighteen months in Milan they have always supported us, rejoiced with us. There was fortunately a result to celebrate, sometimes we lost however during the matches they have always been with us.”
