Matteo Darmian has urged his Inter Milan teammates not to let last night’s UEFA Champions League heartbreak at Bayer Leverkusen undermine their confidence.
Speaking to Inter TV via FCInterNews, Darmian discussed Inter’s performance at the BayArena, admitting frustration after conceding a last-gasp winner.
A trip to Leverkusen was never going to be plain sailing for Simone Inzaghi and the defending Serie A champions.
However, the Nerazzurri performed below expectations, especially in the final third, failing to threaten Matej Kovar’s goal.
Focused on keeping a sixth consecutive clean sheet in the Champions League this term, Inter neglected their attacking duties.
It would eventually backfire on them as Nordi Mukiele inflicted a painful loss on the Giuseppe Meazza outfit in the 90th minute.
A late collapse in Germany has immensely complicated Inter’s bid to secure automatic knockout qualification.
But Darmian hopes that will not dampen the team’s high spirits.
Matteo Darmian Urges Inter Milan Teammates to Maintain Enthusiasm Despite Bayer Leverkusen Defeat
“It’s never pleasant to lose, but we knew we were up against a quality team,” the 35-year-old said.
“Today, we leave with a defeat, which is disappointing, but it shouldn’t undermine our confidence.
“We need to look forward positively, both in the Champions League and in Serie A. From tomorrow, we’ll start thinking about Lazio.”
Conceding moments before the final whistle was heartbreaking. But Darmian hailed the team’s collective performance.
“Everyone put in the effort, which is crucial,” he added.
“It’s frustrating to concede a goal in the final moments from a half-dead ball; we were unlucky, but that’s football.
“We supported one another, and that has to be the foundation as we move forward positively.”
Inter must shrug off frustration quickly as they take on in-form Lazio in a massive Serie A clash on Monday.
“It’ll be challenging,” Darmian stated. “Lazio is a team that is having a great season in both the league and Europe.
“We’ll need to stay focused to secure all three points.”
