Inter’s second match of the International Champions Cup 2019 against Juventus ended on penalties, finishing 1-1 after regular time. The Nerazzurri coach, Antonio Conte, spoke to Inter TV after the match, saying the the following: There have been improvements compared to how we were in the match in Singapore, from many points of view. We have improved, what’s important now is that the players start to get that intensity in their minds: press high and, once the ball is won, know what to do with it.


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I have a group of players who are giving me their all and I’m very happy about that. As far as the result is concerned, losing always has to hurt, even if it’s on penalties in a friendly match. If we all feel that pain, whether it’s the players or the technical staff or all the directors, then it means that we’re building something special. We’re beginning to see an identity, our own style of play on the pitch that we want to have. As I always say: heads down and keep working, know that there’s a lot of hard work still to do. We’ve been working for 12 days, you have to believe in what you are doing. I’ve seen a lot of what we’re trying achieve, for 70 minutes we were at the right levels. In three days there is a new test where we can improve even further.

At the press conference the coach also spoke on individual players: Dalbert is playing and improving, just like the whole team: he’s making his contribution, he has to work well to take on the idea of football that I have in my head. Perisic can lead the line in this system. As for the defence: Skriniar, De Vrij and D’Ambrosio are doing well, then there’s Godin who can play both on the right and in the centre. We also have Ranocchia and Bastoni, they’re both strong. Whoever gives me the most security in defence will play.

The Chinese fans are special, I was surprised by the great affection we were shown: it was an honour to play this match in Nanjing, I’m really pleased by the atmosphere and I’d like to thank the fans for the warm welcome.