Hakan Calhanoglu believes that it was experience that made the difference for Inter Milan against Red Bull Salzburg in the Champions League.
The 29-year-old spoke to InterTV after the match, via FCInterNews.
Inter did not have an easy time against Salzburg.
The Austrian champions came to the San Siro ready to push the Nerazzurri high up the pitch.
And this did cause Inter problems.
Particularly early on in the match, Inter struggled to come to grips with the tempo of Salzburg’s pressing, and gave the ball away far too easily.
But then as the match wore on, Inter started to look more and more confident.
The Nerazzurri’s quality showed through in their opener. Veteran forward Alexis Sanchez finished off an excellent team move.
But even from there, Salzburg hardly looked like giving up.
On the contrary, there were continued waves of pressure and attacking from the Austrian team. And they were rewarded with an equalizer in the second half.
But in the end, Inter were able to get their advantage back.
Former AC Milan and Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Calhanoglu restored their lead from the penalty spot. And from there on Inter held on to their lead to take three points and give themselves a real foothold in their Champions League group.
Hakan Calhanoglu Reacts To Inter Champions League Win Vs Red Bull Salzburg
After the match, Calhanoglu said that “I’m happy because we won an important and tough match against a young, high-quality team who have enthusiasm and a lot of running.”
“But in the end experience made the difference, so to speak, and I’m happy.”
Calhanoglu reflected that “I work every day to grow and improve.”
“I like to help out in the defensive phase,” he noted. “I’ve grown and there’s still room to improve.”
“That’s also thanks to our coaching staff. I thank them.”
And of his goal from the penalty spot, Calhanoglu noted that “From the outside they may seem easy to score. But they’re not.”
“I always try to concentrate 100% and not make mistakes.”
