MILAN – Stefano Pioli was brimming with pride after the 3-0 win against Lazio and insisted the performance could be a starting point for bigger and better things.
"This was a head-to-head against a direct competitor and the result was the most important thing tonight," the gaffer began after a victory that saw Inter climb to 30 points in the league table. "We won 3-0 and we also played well, putting on a performance of a real team. A team that wanted to win and was prepared to grit their teeth to do so.
"We knew that Simone Inzaghi's side are one of the best in Europe in terms of first-half performances, so we expected to be under pressure from the pace of their strikers at the start. However, the guys are aware that quality alone is not enough to win games. The team helped each other out and worked for each other; now we have a soul. This is the foundation to build on and continue developing.
"There are still many aspects where we can improve, but we're putting great passion and spirit into our performances. The technical and personal qualities are there to go on and do great things, but to get back to the top and be truly competitive we have to continue down this path."
After such a fantastic display before Serie A goes on hold for a few weeks, it was a shame Inter couldn't play again immediately.
"I'd have liked to have ridden the wave of this enthusiasm and perhaps it would have been nice to carry on playing,” Pioli continued. “But we'll have a peaceful Christmas as we try to keep the right focus because January could be decisive for our future."
The coach also had praise for a couple of players who have been under pressure recently.
"I liked [Ever] Banega and [Geoffrey] Kondogbia a lot. Nevertheless, from what I saw from them in the week I was sure they'd put in a positive performance. They are quality players and they just have to find conviction and belief because they have the tools to make the difference.
"Gabriel Barbosa? I'm happy with the excitement he showed when he came on. He's young and is working hard, just like the rest of his team-mates. Once in a while I'll choose the right formation to play him in."
Pioli wrapped up his post-match analysis with a few words for his captain after yet another telling display.
"In the second half we began playing higher up the pitch and Mauro Icardi was in the right positions to hurt the opposition," he concluded, "but he was moving fantastically in the first half too. I can only be pleased with his performances, attitude and the way he behaves. I've got to know a fantastic bloke, a hard worker that everyone should look up to. He is vital for us. In terms of his quality, I knew I was dealing with a top-drawer player."
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