UDINE - Inter technical director Marco Branca commented on the Nerazzurri's display at the Stadio Friuli. "I think we can define today's victory over Udinese as a victory of character and pure desire to win," he told Sky Sport Italia.
"This victory came after a very long and intense week from both a physical and psychological point of view. It came after the game with Sampdoria, a game we played with nine against eleven for most of the match, and after an important game like the one against Chelsea."
Second-placed AC Milan remain four points off the top spot thanks to their 3-1 home win over Atalanta, while Inter move seven clear of Roma who were held 2-2 in Naples. "This was a very important victory, obtained despite the five or six key absences due to disqualifications and injuries," added Branca. "Also, Udine is a very tough ground for everybody and Udinese played very well today. These three points are not decisive, but they are well-earned. We played a very nice match in the first half, we were less lively in the second half but this was because we were a bit tired and because our opponent created difficulties for us."
Lucio turned in another impressive performance at the back while Mario Balotelli gave a further glimpse of his immense talent with Inter's equalising goal. "We are all very satisfied with Lucio, with his game today but also with his intensity and desire," said Branca. "Balotelli is gradually realising what a great professional has to do. We have to stay right behind him but he is willing to improve. We are absolutely satisfied with Mario."
