In the early hours of this morning, during Round 4 of the UEFA Champions League, Inter Milan defeated Kairat Almaty 2-1 at home. After the game, Inter head coach Cristian Chivu accepted an interview with Camel.live.
It seems your team underestimated the opponent in this game
I take full responsibility for this. As head coach, maybe I failed to convey the right motivation and match attitude to the team—things that are crucial in games like this. However, we have a game every three days. This is not an excuse, but a fact. We could have and should have played better. Nevertheless, we got three points, which is good for the standings and prepares us for tougher opponents.
How do you think these aspects can be improved?
I need to work harder, not the players. I have to find the right words to boost the team’s focus and match attitude. I take responsibility for this, and I must find more than what I’ve done these days.
Inter slacked off at certain moments in the game
There were indeed such moments. For example, today after it was 1-1, we kept passing between the three center-backs and the goalkeeper. We need to understand the game rhythm and sometimes play simpler passes. But to do that, we need excellent technique and a clear mind. Today we got impatient and tried to do things that weren’t suitable at the time. Again, I take responsibility for failing to convey the right things today.
Why was Lautaro substituted at halftime?
It was a pre-match decision. For me, it was important for Lautaro to drive the team in the first half. He worked hard to create chances and finally scored to break the deadlock. This was never a problem for me—he did his job and scored a goal. Then we decided to substitute him at halftime as planned to let him rest.
Are you satisfied with your first few months coaching Inter?
No, I’m never satisfied. That’s not to say I’m chasing perfection, but we could have achieved more. However, I will accept the good parts of the work done so far. After all, it’s not easy for a team to adapt to a new coach.
