Inter defender Francesco Acerbi was clear that ‘details will make the difference’ in the Champions League Round of 16 tie with Porto.
The Nerazzurri qualified for the knockout stages of Europe’s premier club competition after a hard-fought group stage, edging out Barcelona to finish second behind Bayern Munich. Things were a little simpler for Porto, who topped a group containing Club Brugge, Bayer Leverkusen and Atletico Madrid.
Speaking in a press conference, Acerbi first discussed the importance of regaining defensive stability.
“Tomorrow will be an important match, we know their quality and their habit of playing these competitions. They are a quality team, physical, good on the counter, experienced.
“It will be a difficult match, we always try to improve every training and every match, to concede as little as possible. We know that individuals can solve the game.”
He reflected on the Nerazzurri’s disappointing defensive work in their recent 3-1 win over Udinese.
“We had a good first half, in the second we went on the offensive too much. We could have also lost, if they score goals, it becomes a match where you are thinking about what you did wrong.
“There you have to have more balance, for me it’s a matter of generosity, everyone wants to score, but it’s not good because then you lose, and you talk about another game.
“You need balance in the 90 minutes, knowing that matches last 95 minutes.”
The veteran defender commented on his growth and the criticisms levied against him since his move to the club.
“I always give my best, I know it’s an exciting game, it will be nice and exciting to play it. I prepare as I always do, with a lot of attention and a lot of concentration, hoping to make as few mistakes as possible and to give my teammates a hand on the pitch.”
Acerbi spoke about what changes occur when Marcelo Brozovic or Hakan Calhanoglu start.
“They are two very strong players, Brozovic is someone who in that role there, when he is well, is really strong.
“Calha is having a great season, they are two players who want the ball, they look for the play and they move a lot. Those who play always do well.”
Finally, Acerbi discussed his relationship with coach Simone Inzaghi and how it feels working with him at Inter.
“The coach is always the same, it’s right that he should be, he’s always been like that and I’ve found him in better shape than usual! Joking aside, he’s the same.
“He prepares the matches, he’s always the same, very calm when needed and when we need to give to stay on the ball, he’s ready to give us a boost.”
The 35-year-old Acerbi has made 24 appearances across all competitions this season for Inter, playing 1797 minutes of action.