Inzaghi: ‘Inter Champions League destiny in our hands’ | OneFootball

Simone Inzaghi thanks Inter for their 1-0 victory away to Sparta Prague, as they have their Champions League ‘destiny in our hands’ and need just one point for the top eight.

The Nerazzurri have secured their place in at least the play-offs, but with one game to go they are on track for a top eight finish and direct access to the Round of 16.

Their final fixture will be at San Siro against AS Monaco, who are currently in 10th position.

“We got here with great performances, we need one more point and our destiny is in our own hands,” Inzaghi told Sky Sport Italia.

“This was by no means to be taken for granted. I am very satisfied with how we remained concentrated, especially during such a packed fixture list, and I congratulated the lads. I also thank the fans who made the journey to be with us this evening.”

Inzaghi saw enough from Inter in Prague

epa11845813 Denzel Dumfries of Milan (L) celebrates with teammates before his goal was ruled offside and disallowed during the UEFA Champions League league phase match between Sparta Prague and Inter Milan, in Prague, Czechia, 22 January 2025. EPA-EFE/MARTIN DIVISEK

It was a hard slog in Prague, as Lautaro Martinez volleyed in the Alessandro Bastoni cross at the back post from a tricky angle and that proved enough for all three points.

Denzel Dumfries had also got the ball in the back of the net, but it was disallowed after a long VAR check for Federico Dimarco’s offside position.

“We had effectively added a second, because the offside was basically one of Dimarco’s studs. We thought that Sparta might open up a bit more after the goal, but they stayed clammed up, so we raised the tempo in the second half and created quite a few good situations,” added Inzaghi.

Yann Sommer also had to make a couple of saves at the other end, particularly on Veijko Birmancevic.

“Sparta Prague are a very physical side and dangerous on set plays, but we were very concentrated on those situations too and when they did find a way through, our goalkeeper did really well.”

With Hakan Calhanoglu still out injured, Kristjan Asllani has been taking the midfield reins at a level he was not entirely accustomed to.

“Kristjan is doing very good things. Clearly, Calhanoglu is ahead of him in the pecking order, but he is working well and is always ready when called upon,” continued Inzaghi.

“Everyone can get a game wrong, but he never gives up, works hard and without the yellow card today I would’ve left him on for the full 90 minutes. He’s sharp in his choices and does what I ask, he has our utmost faith and just has to keep going like this.”