Inzaghi Optimistic Following Inter’s Commanding First-Leg Victory Against Feyenoord

Inter Milan’s manager, Simone Inzaghi, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance following their 2-0 victory against Feyenoord in the Champions League round of 16 on Wednesday. The Dutch side posed significant challenges for the Italian club throughout the match.

Goals from Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez, just before and after halftime respectively, gave three-time European champions Inter a solid lead in the first leg of the encounter.

“Lautaro and Thuram were outstanding, and their replacements, (Mehdi) Taremi and (Marko) Arnautovic, also made a positive impact,” Inzaghi stated at a press conference.

“The players on the wings—(Francesco) Acerbi, (Alessandro) Bastoni, and (Yann) Bisseck—did exceptionally well with their contributions and overall effort. It wasn’t an easy match, and I anticipate the second leg will be equally challenging.”

Inter’s defensive performance this season has been impressive, with the Serie A leaders conceding only once in nine Champions League matches, that being a 1-0 defeat to Bayer Leverkusen.

Josep Martinez, a Spaniard, has been stepping in as goalkeeper for first-choice Yann Sommer, who has been out of action due to a fractured thumb sustained in a game against Juventus last month.

“Martinez showcased his abilities, which were never in question. He handled the pressure well and adapted seamlessly,” Inzaghi remarked.

“Serving as Inter’s goalkeeper comes with its challenges, yet we have Sommer, our experienced keeper, who is performing admirably. I will consider my options carefully, but I’m pleased with everyone’s contributions,”

The Italian manager is optimistic about having injured players available for the return leg in Milan on Tuesday.

“I believe (defender) Carlos Augusto might be ready,” Inzaghi mentioned. “(Midfielder Nicola) Zalewski is also a candidate, though Carlos is slightly ahead in recovery.”

“I’m uncertain whether we will have (defenders Federico) Dimarco and (Matteo) Darmian back for the next three matches, but there is considerable optimism, and our support staff is doing a fantastic job to help us navigate through this situation.”