Claudio Ranieri feels “it’s a snapshot of our current moment” for Inter after yet another defeat, this time in the Champions League, and a Douglas Maicon injury.
Claudio Ranieri feels “it’s a snapshot of our current moment” for Inter after yet another defeat, this time in the Champions League, and a Douglas Maicon injury.
The Nerazzurri lost 1-0 to Olympique Marseille in the first leg of their Round of 16 encounter at the Stade Velodrome. Maicon went off at half-time and it’s reported the Brazilian suffered a quite serious right knee injury.
“We knew they would get off to a very strong start, but we never gave in and created some chances that we failed to convert,” Ranieri told Sky Sport Italia after the final whistle.
“This game is like a snapshot of our current moment, as when things go wrong then they really go wrong, but this tie does not end here. There are another 90 minutes to go and with a packed San Siro in the second leg anything is possible.”
Ranieri opted for Mauro Zarate wide left of midfield and Wesley Sneijder in a more advanced role behind sole striker Diego Forlan.
“The team did well and we didn’t suffer at all with the 4-4-1-1 system, but then the goal at the 93rd minute ruined everything. Diego Milito was not 100 per cent fit and I chose these men because they could give me more guarantees of coming back to help and pressing our opponents.
“We are a little unlucky. Julio Cesar didn’t have to make big saves, as Marseille hardly had a shot on target. This is football, as tonight we did well and created more than them, so did not deserve the defeat.
“Everyone made sacrifices for the team and it’s a shame to see we can’t score despite all those opportunities. The side was balanced tonight.
“I knew Didier Deschamps would have Diarra in front of the defence without moving and I knew Marseille would push more on their right flank. I also expected to score, so it’s particularly galling to lose at the 93rd minute.
“I am satisfied with the performance from the lads. In the second leg should we approach with patience or lay siege? Lay a patient siege!”