Simone Inzaghi thanks his Inter players for an ‘extraordinary’ performance to beat Benfica 2-0 in the Champions League quarter-final and refuses to gloat against the critics.
The coach was under immense pressure going into this match, having managed only one win in his last eight competitive fixtures, but really delivered on the European stage once again.
Benfica were unbeaten in the Champions League this season, but barely tested Andre Onana, while Nicolò Barella’s rare header and a Romelu Lukaku penalty sealed a 2-0 victory at the Estadio da Luz.
Even though the away goals rule no longer applies, this is still a huge lead taking to San Siro for the second leg on April 19.
“It was a great performance with hard work, running, determination and we enjoy this evening, but also know it is only the first 90 minutes. We did very well in both phases, allowing Benfica very little. The lads were extraordinary, but the second leg cannot be taken for granted,” Inzaghi told Sky Sport Italia.
“Let’s not forget that we had three games without winning, but we deserved more on the field. It meant we had to do more, we did that today and it’s a wonderful evening, but the tie will be decided next week.”
Performances like this in the big matches only raise further question marks when Inter stutter against mid-table sides and fail to deliver the same attitude and determination in every appointment.
“I don’t think we should forget this is our third away match in six games, with many players who were coming off international duty. It’s not an excuse, but these lads are really gritting their teeth to get through and only Inter have this tough a fixture list.”
Edin Dzeko was booked for rushing off the bench to celebrate Lukaku’s penalty, but that was a sign of the unity felt by the Inter squad.
“That is normal in football, you must always be united. In these 18 months you’ve never heard me complain about the effort of these players. We are still in three tournaments and have to keep going.”
It must be special for Inzaghi to be on the verge of a Champions League semi-final when he spent the last few weeks being lambasted by criticism and facing calls for his sacking.
“I am satisfied for my players, because they always worked like crazy for me. Criticism is fine, I am polite enough to listen, check where it comes from and go forward.”