Chivu: ‘Inter show of maturity, neutralised Ajax strengths’

“It is important for the work that the lads are doing, they were close before, and tonight was a show of maturity,” Chivu told Sky Sport Italia.

“We tried to neutralise Ajax’s strengths, which included their passing in the final third, and only allowed them to pass the ball in areas we were comfortable. We tried to stay in their half, recover the ball as quickly as possible, and immediate go with vertical passes. It went well.”

Their mood was even more damaged by the absence of captain and talisman Lautaro Martinez, who was only fit for a spot on the bench due to a back issue, but 20-year-old Pio Esposito filled in admirably.

“As I said a few weeks ago, he is a striker that the Italy team and Inter will certainly enjoy for a long time to come.”

Check the Football Italia Player Ratings for Ajax 0-2 Inter

Inter chased Ademola Lookman throughout the summer, but after failing to prise him away from Atalanta, opted to stick with the 3-5-2 formation that Simone Inzaghi had used for so many years.

“I did want to stay with the 3-5-2, because this is what the team knows how to do. We just wanted to add a few things, but above all to rediscover the mental strength and confidence that had been lacking,” added Chivu.

“I continue along my path, trying not to do damage to a team that was already strong.”

Chivu had resisted pressure to drop Yann Sommer and it proved a wise move, as the goalkeeper made a crucial save just moments before the opening Inter goal.