Inter Milan 3-2 Juventus – Nerazzurri Coach Defends Under-Fire Italy Defender After Controversial Decision In Derby Victory | OneFootball

Cristian Chivu leapt to the defence of Alessandro Bastoni after controversy surrounded Inter’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Juventus at San Siro.

Speaking to DAZN after the final whistle, via FCInterNews, the Inter coach first reflected on what he described as a psychological hurdle his team had to overcome.

“I’m thinking about my players and the mental block that was present in this match,” Chivu began.

“Maybe the two years without winning a direct clash against Milan, Juve or Napoli weighed on us. Today I saw a blocked team, but one that then showed heart and quality to take it home. We should have managed it better at 2-1 and in the second half, but I’ll take the positives because today it was important to win.”

Chivu also addressed the incident involving Pierre Kalulu.

“For me it’s a light touch,” he explained.

“But at the same time, I say that a player who is already booked must avoid gestures that can put the referee in difficulty. I experienced this with my own team against Liverpool when we conceded a half-penalty situation, I was angry with my defender. The same principle applies here. Kalulu, knowing he was on a yellow, could have avoided putting his hand on our player.”

Inter 3-2 Juventus – Chivu Defends Bastoni

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 25: Alessandro Bastoni of Internazionale looks on during the warm up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Despite the debate, Chivu insisted the result should not alter Inter’s long-term focus.

“What boost can this give us? Zero percent, as I said after Sassuolo. There are still 13 matches left and the league is long.”

Chivu then firmly defended Bastoni, who faced criticism following the controversial decision.

“He’s a national team player. You can’t question whether he felt the punch on his arm or chest. It’s a light touch, but I teach my players not to put the referee in a position to make decisions.”

He continued: “Ale felt the blow. He was about to launch a counterattack and something important could have developed. Now people are questioning a player who doesn’t dive.

“I’ve seen many situations in this league where players fall without being touched. He felt the hit, and it prevented him from going into transition.”

For Chivu, the debate should not overshadow the broader picture.

Inter broke a negative streak in direct clashes.

They showed resilience under pressure, and demonstrated renewed belief in decisive moments.

Whether this derby marks a genuine turning point will depend on the coming weeks.

However, the coach made one thing clear: his trust in Bastoni, and in his team’s character, remains absolute.