Javier Zanetti admits he was “surprised” at the two Manchester clubs going out. “Now we hope for a good draw.”
Inter qualified top of their group to reach the Champions League last 16 regardless of tonight’s 2-1 home defeat to CSKA Moscow.
Javier Zanetti admits he was “surprised” at the two Manchester clubs going out. “Now we hope for a good draw.”
Inter qualified top of their group to reach the Champions League last 16 regardless of tonight’s 2-1 home defeat to CSKA Moscow.
“CSKA believed to the end and they deserve credit as well as their qualification. The important thing for us was to finish top of the group, so now we hope for a good draw,” said the captain.
“I was a little surprised at seeing some important teams left out of the draw for the knockouts, but that doesn’t make the competition any easier. The teams that are left will give their all.”
Both Manchester United and Manchester City crashed out, while Italy are the only country with three sides left in the Champions League.
Inter could’ve won tonight’s game, but Diego Milito nodded a wonderful Zanetti cross on to the woodwork from point-blank range.
“It’s a shame for Diego, but these moments happen to a striker and even the easiest goals won’t go in. We must give him time and keep the faith, because he’s still very important for the team.”
In the draw for the knockouts, Inter are in Pot 1 along with other group winners Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Benfica, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Arsenal and Apoel Nicosia.
In Pot 2 are Milan, Napoli, Zenit, Marseille, Bayer Leverkusen, Olympique Lyonnais, CSKA Moscow and FC Basel.