Rome, Sept. 29 (LaPresse) – “There’s a fine line between a defeat and a victory, even though we performed well against both Udinese and Juventus. What changes is the win itself, the high level of focus, the desire to dominate, to understand the game and its moments. This team deserved what it has earned in recent weeks,” said Inter coach Christian Chivu to Sky Sport, on the eve of their Champions League home debut against Slavia Prague.
“We go game by game. The Champions League is never easy—every team is strong, capable of putting you in trouble, and has the quality and determination to get results. Our focus is on Slavia, the most important match right now. They play with intensity and a direct style, they push many players into your half and into the box when attacking. They are a team with power and quality. We need to be alert, impose our own game, take away their best qualities, and be dominant,” he added.
“Providing certainty and confidence is the coach’s job, but then it’s up to the players. What happens outside matters little—what counts is the work we do in Appiano, both physically and mentally. The players are the real protagonists; they’re the ones who raise the level. They must not be selfish—they should think of the team, not individual performance. The higher the individual level, the higher the team level rises,” Chivu emphasized.
On the lineup, Chivu didn’t reveal much: “Sommer will return, and that’s all I’ll say. We have a strong group of players who are working well and making my choices difficult. Everyone contributes, and that’s a credit to them. This group is committed, understands the moments, and respects the coach’s decisions. That speaks volumes about them.”
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