Inter Milan 2-2 Napoli – Cristian Chivu Admits Early Second-Half Struggles: “We Suffered From Their Halftime Adjustments” | OneFootball

Inter Milan manager Cristian Chivu delivered his verdict on his team’s performance against Napoli last night.

Speaking to Rai Radio 1 via FCInterNews, the 45-year-old admitted that his side suffered at the start of the second half.

Napoli came from behind twice to hold the Nerazzurri to a 2-2 draw at Giuseppe Meazza last night.

Federico Dimarco opened the scoring in the ninth minute, but Scott McTominay pulled one back for the visitors midway through the first half.

However, the San Siro giants regained the lead in the 73rd minute as Hakan Calhanoglu converted the penalty.

Despite being given little time to respond, Napoli drew level through McTominay’s second of the game.

As a result, Inter squandered a massive chance to extend their lead at the top of the table.

Furthermore, Cristian Chivu will have to wait a while longer for his first win in a high-profile game at the helm.

Cristian Chivu Delivers Verdict on Inter Milan 2-2 Napoli Draw

MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Chivu revealed his regret for dropping the lead twice.

“We took the lead twice,” he said. “But at the start of the second half, we perhaps suffered from their quality and the adjustments they made at halftime.

“We lost our balance in applying the right pressing, while they were good at moving the ball around and playing it vertically.”

Chivu’s Inter failed to avenge a controversial 3-1 defeat in October’s reverse fixture at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza.

Moreover, the Nerazzurri are now winless in their last five league matches against Napoli.

Interestingly, the last three meetings between the sides at Meazza ended all square.

If it’s any consolation, Inter have maintained a three-point lead over second-placed AC Milan.

With the Rossoneri taking on Como in their next game, Inter could have another chance to stretch their lead.