Inter manager Antonio Conte has stressed that his team must have confidence in their own means ahead of the second round of Champions League group stage fixtures following their defeat to Real Madrid.
Conte’s side managed to come from 2-0 down in the Spanish capital and brought it back to 2-2 and had chances to get a third but they failed to do so, unlike Real Madrid, who won 3-2 thanks to a late strike from second half substitute Rodrygo.
“We played against a determined opponent who had defined this match as a Champions League final and we know that Champions League finals hardly go wrong for them,” he began an interview with Inter’s official club broadcaster Inter TV following the match at the Alfredo Di Stefano stadium.
The former Juventus manager went to admit that whilst bitter with how the game ended, he believes it was evidence of the growth the team have made.
“There is bitterness for the final result, on my part, the players part and also on the part of the staff. On the other hand, I say that these are important steps for us because this match also shows great growth in everything.
“We came here to play as a great team, with the desire to compare ourselves and trust in our means. It should not be underestimated as an aspect. I am sorry because we are talking about a final result and a compromised qualification, but there are three games left.”
In conclusion he was asked whether the fact the next Champions League match is against Real Madrid can be an advantage to them.
“In the end we have to play all three teams again. There are three games, nine points up for grabs, and we must have confidence in our means trying to take care of the details that have been moving the games in a negative way for us lately.”
