Inter Milan’s Derby Disappointment: A Critical Analysis

In the recent Milan derby, Inter Milan showcased superiority in various statistical categories, including ball possession and shot attempts. Cristian Chivu’s team recorded nine corners and five shots on target, while their rivals, AC Milan, managed just one corner and three shots. However, the match concluded unfavorably for Inter, with Christian Pulisic scoring the decisive goal in the 54th minute. Defender Alessandro Bastoni expressed deep disappointment following the match.

Bastoni asserted that the outcome was frustrating, emphasizing that he could not recall any clear scoring opportunities for Milan beyond their goal. In a statement to RAI, he remarked, “It’s difficult to make a lucid analysis of this match; I don’t remember any clear chances for them apart from the goal. While it hurts to analyze defeats like this, sometimes losing in a significant manner can highlight areas for improvement. Overall, I believe we played well despite the episodes. In previous matches, such as those against Napoli, we exhibited serious lapses, but against Juventus and Milan, it’s hard to comment further. We need to review the game, as the on-field sensations can differ greatly. However, I felt we were at least equal this time. Unlike past instances where we appeared vulnerable, this time we showed courage, especially in one-on-one situations with Rafael Leao and Pulisic. There was no sense of inevitable goals against us.”

This loss marks Inter’s fourth defeat in the Serie A season, positioning them in fourth place on the league table. A victory could have temporarily elevated them to the top spot. Bastoni commented on the implications of the defeat, stating, “This serves as a wake-up call because four defeats is excessive. However, I believe losses must be analyzed. I would be far more concerned if I saw Inter lacking character or disengaged, which I don’t see. As long as this mentality and spirit persist, I am confident that we will rebound.”

While Bastoni called for a thorough analysis, Coach Cristian Chivu also expressed his dissatisfaction with the result. He stated, “The frustration stems not only from what we created but from our overall performance and focus. We allowed very few counter-attacks, despite knowing the threat posed by their two forwards. The one instance we lost a second ball in midfield led to their goal. This is football. I take solace in our good performance; the players fought until the end, even after the disappointment of hitting the woodwork twice. They sought to score in every possible manner, which embodies the spirit I want to see.

“Experiencing a fourth defeat in 12 matches is excessive. Nonetheless, the league standings remain competitive, and we need to manage this frustration, as losing a match of this nature can leave a lasting impact.” Chivu further acknowledged shared responsibility, stating, “We all could have performed better—be it in scoring earlier or handling key moments in the match. Our priority now is to recover, as we face an equally significant match on Tuesday.”

Inter has a mere two days to regroup before their Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid, scheduled for this Tuesday. Following a brief respite, they will then confront Pisa in Serie A on Sunday. However, the matchup against the Spanish giants is poised to be the more critical of the two, as Inter currently sits third in the Champions League group, tied on points with Bayern Munich and Arsenal.