Antonio Conte his given his verdict on Inter Milan’s Champions League elimination to the second-string Barcelona side
The Nerazzurri failed to live up to expectations in their ‘must-win’ affair against the Catalan visitors, losing 2-1 at the Giuseppe Meazza on Tuesday night.
Inter were level on points with Borussia Dortmund ahead of the kick-off, and they needed a victory to secure the second spot in Group.
Even though Ernesto Valverde decided to rest almost his entire starting XI, the reigning La Liga holders managed to walk away from Milan with all three points thanks to the likes of Carles Perez and Ansu Fati.Respeto, Rispetto, Respekt 👏
— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) December 10, 2019
Fair play to @FCBarcelona, @Inter_en, and @slavia_eng for a memorable six matches! 💛 pic.twitter.com/gusCrDyWuX
A lack of concentration in the final third proved fatal for the home team, who saw two goals righteously disallowed for offsides.
During the post-match interview, Antonio Conte has hailed his team’s efforts, insisting Inter deserved more for the way they played and the chances they created.
“We had the chances to win the game, we created those opportunities, but lacked that clinical edge to convert them,” the Italian manager said, as transcribed by the Football-Italia.
“I have no complaints to make, as my players gave their all. We just lacked a goal and instead conceded at the other end to go 2-1 down, which really killed us.
This just about sums it up. pic.twitter.com/WJlykWP4z1
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 10, 2019
“Watching that Ansu Fati goal is painful, as it killed us in every way. We were pushing, creating the chances to score and go 2-1 up. It’s disappointing above all for the players, as they are giving their all in a difficult period.
“I was also disappointed for the fans at San Siro, as they pushed us from start to finish and created a wonderful atmosphere. It should’ve ended differently.
“Looking at the group and our overall performances, I think we deserved more. However, when you don’t get out the other side, you need to roll your sleeves up and keep helping these lads to grow. It’s all valuable experience.
“We need to get back on our feet and start walking again.”
Inter can now focus their attention on the Serie A, where they currently sit two points clear of Juventus at the summit, having won 12 of the opening 15 league fixtures.
