Inter Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu admits that the club was operating in energy-saving mode during the first half against Benfica.
The Nerazzurri hosted the Eagles on the second matchday of the Champions League group stage.
Following a rather slow first half, the Italians upped their game after the interval, creating a flurry of chances.
While Lautaro Martinez came extremely close on five occasions, it was Marcus Thuram who scored the goal that separated the two sides.
For his part, Calhanoglu operated as the lynchpin in the middle of the park. He started the match for the Nerazzurri before leaving his spot on the pitch for Kristjan Asllani in the 84th minute.
The Turkish international admits that Inter were managing their energy levels in the first half.
“In the first half, we managed the tempo as to avoid expending a lot of energy,” said the former AC Milan star in his post-match interview with Sportitalia via FcInterNews.
“We managed it well. But in the second half, we controlled the match. We deserved to win.
Inter Milan Star Hakan Calhanoglu Explains Why His Team Conserved Energy In The First Half Vs Benfica
“Now we’re playing every three days. Thus, we had to be intelligent and so we did.
“We should have scored a second and third goal but they the ball refused to go in. Nevertheless, we’re happy with the performance.”
The Beneamata will now turn their attention to the Serie A contest against Bologna in the weekend.
Inter will host Thiago Motta’s men at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium in the final fixture before the October international break.
