Cristian Chivu acknowledged that Inter Milan ‘suffered’ during their thrilling 4-3 comeback victory against Como, but praised his team for showing ‘maturity’ after falling behind 2-0. He also took a playful jab at Antonio Conte and Max Allegri regarding their Scudetto aspirations.
The Nerazzurri demonstrated their championship potential as they faced a challenging first half at Stadio Sinigaglia, conceding two goals from Alex Valle and Nico Paz.
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However, the match turned around with a brace from Marcus Thuram and another from Denzel Dumfries, allowing Inter to take a 4-2 lead. They managed to hold off the pressure, even after Lucas Da Cunha converted a late penalty, finalizing the score at 4-3.
Chivu praises Inter’s resilience in comeback
COMO, ITALY – APRIL 12: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu shouts during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We knew it would be tough, as we were facing a team fighting for something significant. They showed it with their mobility, pace, and intensity in the first half,” Chivu shared with DAZN Italia.
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“Admittedly, we struggled at first and went 2-0 down, but managing to score brought us confidence. After halftime, we upped our game, displayed resilience, and turned the match, although it was certainly challenging.”
Previously, Inter had faced Como in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final, where they were held to a goalless draw.
Even in the absence of injury-hit Lautaro Martinez, who chose to sit on the bench to support his teammates, Inter has recorded an impressive tally of 102 goals in 46 competitive matches this season.
COMO, ITALY – APRIL 12: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas and FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu observe the game during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
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“We focused our training this morning solely on set plays, aware that they could provide good scoring opportunities today,” Chivu explained.
“It’s a testament to the hard work of my staff and players that we excel in these situations. We have outstanding free-kick takers and players adept in the air, so it would be a missed opportunity not to leverage these skills.”
The remarkable turnaround came against the backdrop of Como’s strong start, marking the second time Inter has secured a win after being 2-0 down, the first being against Pisa.
“This victory reflects our maturity, as we recognized crucial moments within the game,” Chivu noted.
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“With seven matches remaining, we need to elevate our ambitions and understand the importance of extending our lead at the top of the table.”
“We were taken aback by Como’s intensity in the first half, but our response showcased our maturity as a team.”
Following Napoli’s 1-1 draw with Parma and Milan’s loss to Udinese over the weekend, Inter now sits nine points clear at the top, with six matches to go.
When asked if they could already see the Scudetto within reach, Chivu cheekily responded with a remark towards both Napoli’s Conte and Milan’s Allegri.
“I’ll do what my colleagues do and only discuss Champions League qualification, claiming we’re pleased to be getting closer to achieving that goal. Mathematically, we’ve yet to secure it.”
COMO, ITALY – APRIL 12: Denzel Dumfries of FC Internazionale celebrates with coach Cristian Chivu after scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
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Dumfries had a standout performance with two goals, underscoring how much the team missed his presence during his recent injury absence.
“Indeed, we missed him significantly, as he brings a unique threat to our attacking strategies, especially on set plays,” Chivu acknowledged.
“While Luis Henrique might excel in ball retention, Denzel brings more physicality, is a commanding presence in the box, and knows when to time his runs to the back post, as demonstrated today.”