Leonardo concedes it was a real struggle for Inter to reach the Coppa Italia Final, “but our season doesn't need saving.”
Already 1-0 up from the first leg, a 1-1 draw at San Siro was enough to push past Roma and set up a Final against Palermo on May 29.
“It was so difficult. The first half was played at a slow tempo and after the break we created the chances that allowed us to control and take the lead,” he said.
Samuel Eto'o seemed to put the result beyond doubt before Marco Borriello set up a tense finale.
Leonardo concedes it was a real struggle for Inter to reach the Coppa Italia Final, “but our season doesn't need saving.”
Already 1-0 up from the first leg, a 1-1 draw at San Siro was enough to push past Roma and set up a Final against Palermo on May 29.
“It was so difficult. The first half was played at a slow tempo and after the break we created the chances that allowed us to control and take the lead,” he said.
Samuel Eto'o seemed to put the result beyond doubt before Marco Borriello set up a tense finale.
“This squad worked hard and it was not easy. Eto'o understood the moment the team was going through and has had a marvellous season, as he works for the team.
“I admit that I did get angry when Borriello hit the post, as it's not good to run a big risk like that, but it soon passed.”
A victory in the Coppa Italia would represent Leonardo's only silverware for this season, as Rafa Benitez was at the helm when lifting the Italian Super Cup and Club World Cup.
“Our season does not need saving. It has been a tumultuous campaign for the squad with a change of management, so we have to take that into account.
“I have a rapport of mutual respect with the President and he has always been close to the side, even in difficult moments.”
Leonardo was asked again about the post-Scudetto celebrations that saw him insulted by Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso.
“I don't like being dragged into these things. Gattuso should say what he really thinks and I would like to understand Milan's position on this. I just want it to be over.”