Inter goalkeeper Andre Onana told club media that ‘playing for Inter puts you one step ahead’ of your opponent after Inter’s qualification for the Champions League semi-final on Wednesday evening.
The former Ajax stopper played an important role as Inter came held out for a 3-3 draw on the night, qualifying 5-3 on aggregate to reach the last four of Europe’s premier competition for the first time in 13 years.
Speaking to Inter TV after the full-time whistle at San Siro on Wednesday night, Onana expressed his pride in his teammates, claiming that they have proved they are among the continent’s best teams.
“I’m very satisfied,” he told the cameras. “We did a great job and proved we’re a great team. I’m happy with the qualification and the group’s work. To play for Inter you mustn’t be afraid of anything. I’m with the best teammates I can have, we’re a great team.
“We believed in it right from the start. We knew it would be tough, but with our quality we were sure we’d have our chances. I’m happy for Lautaro and il Tucu, who know how to make a difference.
“It wasn’t easy: by my side is Handanovic, a legend of the club. It’s an honour to train with him.”
Inter will now face arch-rivals Milan over two legs of the semi-final for a rarely seen European edition of the Derby della Madonnina, which hasn’t happened since the 2003 semi-final 20 years ago.
Onana believes that the pride of playing for Inter gives the squad an additional layer of motivation heading into any game.
He asserted: “Playing for Inter puts you one step ahead of your opponent with the history of this club, defending this shirt gives you a lot.”