Chivu: Inter ‘could have collapsed’, Sommer’s mistake ‘my fault’

Inter coach Cristian Chivu is impressed by players’ reaction in a 6-2 win over Pisa and defends Yann Sommer after the Swiss keeper gave away the opening goal: ‘It’s my fault.’

Inter came back from two goals down in a home game against Pisa on Friday. The Serie A giants completed the comeback even before the half-time break and then scored three more in the second half to claim a 6-2 win in the opening Round of Week 22.

A turning point in the game came at minute 34 when Chivu replaced Luis Henrique with Federico Dimarco. The Italian was the Man of the Match, scoring one goal and providing one assist.

“A match lasts 100 minutes, and it can be turned around,” Chivu told DAZN via FCInter1908.

Pisa striker Stefano Moreo scored the opening goal with a 30-yard lob, but Sommer gave the ball away outside the box, in an attempt to build up from the back.

“That was my fault because I’m the one who makes certain requests to the goalkeeper. Sometimes I put Yann in difficulty,” Chivu said.

“Then they scored from a set piece. After that, we showed pride and kept pushing with quality and intensity, and we turned it around.

“The attitude is what matters; you might suffer at times, but what counts is how you react. I’d say we did very well,” Chivu continued.

“We could have collapsed, but instead, the team kept doing their things. The only regret is that we didn’t make it 4-2 earlier, only at the end. But hats off to the boys, they give everything they have to make this a competitive season and to show that we’re working to reach our objectives.”

Pio Esposito gave Inter the lead seconds before the break with his third Serie A goal this season.

“He really wants to prove himself and put himself on the line. He takes responsibility, like all 25 of our players,” Chivu said.

“And if things don’t go well, it will always be my fault because sometimes I push too hard. I’m happy they believe in our work.”

Chivu arrived late for his post-match interview as he required treatment from the Inter doctors.

“I’ve filled myself with painkillers for my back,” he revealed.

“Tomorrow, my kids want me fresh, and my wife expects it too. I have to be ready to be a good husband and a good father.”

Does this mean he won’t watch Juventus-Napoli and Roma-Milan on Sunday?

“That question again…I have a passion for football that goes beyond my job. Sometimes I’m tired because I watch so many matches, but I know you have to watch them to learn,” Chivu concluded.

“If I get the chance to watch them, I will, but my family is the priority because I devote too much time to these fantastic boys and often neglect my duty as a husband and father. And since they deserve it, sometimes, you have to switch off and not think too much about football. Family always comes first.”