Inter Milan’s 3-2 win over Juventus was a much-needed breakthrough for the team, ending a two-year drought without a win.
Cristian Chivu admitted the team’s dismal record in big games “weighed” on them, but they showed heart and character to bring home the victory.
Chivu denied Alessandro Bastoni dived to get Pierre Kalulu sent off, saying Kalulu should’ve kept his hands to himself. “I think it is a light touch, but it’s still a touch,” Chivu told reporters.
Juventus were furious over the refereeing, with Luciano Spalletti refusing to speak to the media. Chivu avoided discussing the refereeing, but acknowledged the team’s anxiety and pressure to win.
“Sometimes you have to keep your hands at home. It’s a light touch but it’s the referee’s decision. If I was on a yellow I wouldn’t touch my opponent going on a counter-attack”
-Chivu to Sky on Kalulu’s 2nd yellow pic.twitter.com/cZPpWE7c8h
— Italian Football TV (@IFTVofficial) February 15, 2026
Inter’s win was decided by a Piotr Zielinski shot that wrong-footed Michele Di Gregorio. Chivu praised Zielinski’s goal and said the team deserved the win.
Chivu substituted Bastoni at half-time, fearing he would get sent off for simulation. He said he would’ve left him on if Conceicao hadn’t been substituted.
The win is a turning point for Inter, who were at the top of Serie A despite not beating a big club. Chivu hopes this victory ends their mental and physical block.
“At the end of the day, I will take the victory,” Chivu said. “We must give credit to Juventus, who caused us problems with their movement and quality.”
