Cristian Chivu continued to earn plaudits from the Italian media after masterminding Inter Milan in the 2-0 victory at Lecce.

Indeed, with his substitutions once again proving the difference in a match that looked like it could slip into a frustrating stalemate.

With the game goalless heading into the final quarter, Chivu turned to Mkhitaryan and Akanji from the bench.

And both delivered, converting from Dimarco corners to seal three vital points.

Lecce 0-2 Inter Milan – Chivu Delivers Masterclass

Cristian Chivu Inter Milan
MADRID, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 26: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Internazionale, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Internazionale Milano at Estadio Metropolitano on November 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

It was a masterclass in game management from a coach who has made a habit of winning matches from the dugout this season.

Four of the five major outlets awarded Chivu a 7, with TuttoMercatoWeb going even higher at 7.5 in recognition of another influential tactical display.

Only L’Interista were slightly more reserved, handing him a 6.5. Tuttosport summed up the general sentiment neatly, noting it was “yet another victory thanks to spot-on substitutions, hard to criticise him.”

Gazzetta dello Sport highlighted the importance of winning “the crucial three points to shake off the Bodo toxins.”

Cristian Chivu ratings vs Lecce

La Gazzetta dello Sport: 7
Corriere dello Sport: 7
Tuttosport: 7
TMW: 7.5
L’Interista: 6.5