Post by Taxigirl on Dec 11, 2003 10:25:58 GMT
Alberto Zaccheroni insists that despite failing to make the second round of the Champions’ League he is proud of Inter’s performance.
“To say we are disappointed is an understatement,” admitted the lifelong Nerazzurri supporter, “but I am very satisfied with the overall performance. Rarely have I seen a team with such maturity and determination.”
The squad had started the season well with two opening victories, but since Hector Cuper’s dismissal gathered just two points in four games.
“The result is the only problem and we only went out due to our record in direct confrontations with Lokomotiv Moscow,” insisted Zaccheroni.
A victory in Kiev tonight would have seen them safely through behind Arsenal, but a late Diogo Rincon goal ended their hopes.
“Frankly until the final whistle I was confident that we would prevail and make it through to the next phase.”
“We had a great start and maintained the initiative throughout. It is a shame that a defensive frailty allowed Dynamo to punish us and despite continuing to push forward and play the ball we were unable to turn it around.”
Inter are now relegated to the UEFA Cup after reaching the semi-finals of the Champions’ League last season.
Arsenal and Lokomotiv Moscow go through to the final sixteen, while Dynamo Kiev leave the European stage.