Inter Milan demonstrated remarkable resilience in their pre-season friendly against AS Monaco, securing a 2-1 victory despite playing with 10 men for the majority of the match. Coach Cristian Chivu expressed satisfaction with the team`s performance, highlighting their character and determination.
The match began poorly for Inter, conceding a goal within the first two minutes. Their situation worsened when Hakan Calhanoglu received a red card in the 35th minute. However, the team rallied, with Lautaro Martinez and Ange-Yoan Bonny scoring to clinch the win.
Chivu acknowledged the team`s current physical condition, stating, “This was an August friendly, and our players are not yet at peak fitness. However, it was a valuable test. We have limited time, with only 17 days until the Serie A season begins. I`m particularly impressed by the character and desire shown by my players, who were determined to turn the game around despite being a man down.”
The coach emphasized that the result was less important than the team`s development: “I`m not particularly concerned with winning summer trophies. What matters is that the team gains confidence and builds stamina for future challenges. As Inter`s coach, I work with talented players who can always improve both individually and collectively.”
Inter`s pre-season preparations have been delayed due to their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup. Their upcoming friendlies include matches against Monza on August 12 and Olympiacos on August 16, as they prepare for the start of the Serie A season.