Inter Milan Faces Injury Crisis Ahead of Champions League Clash with Feyenoord

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands — Inter Milan is grappling with a defensive injury crisis as they prepare to face Feyenoord in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie on Wednesday. Coach Simone Inzaghi reported four of his five fullbacks are sidelined, complicating their strategy against a formidable Feyenoord side.

The current Serie A leaders are coming off a 1-1 draw in their league match, where injury issues were prominent. Inzaghi also noted that first-choice goalkeeper is unavailable, further exacerbating the team’s defensive woes. Despite these challenges, Inzaghi remains optimistic about his squad’s ability to compete.

“We know we’re in a bit of trouble in a very specific part of the pitch… But the principles of the game don’t change,” Inzaghi told reporters on Tuesday. “We’re here to play in the round of 16 and we’ll do our best.”

Inzaghi emphasized the importance of the first leg, indicating that while it’s a two-legged tie, securing a good result in Rotterdam is crucial for their progression. “The lads know that the first leg is very important for us to go through. We have some small problems to solve, but I’ve seen great willingness from all the lads,” he said.

Feyenoord has already proven their capability by upsetting AC Milan in the previous round, winning 1-0 at home and managing a draw in Italy that allowed them to advance with a 2-1 aggregate score. Inzaghi is wary of Feyenoord’s strength, noting their physical presence and tactical quality.

“They’re a physical team with great quality. We know that it’s not an easy place to play at home. I haven’t been there as a coach yet, but I know it’s a heated environment,” said Inzaghi.

Statistics indicate a low-scoring trend in recent matches for both teams. Feyenoord’s last five contests have seen four end with under three goals, while Inter Milan’s four most recent matches in Serie A have followed a similar pattern. In fact, six of Inter’s eight Champions League matches this season featured two or fewer total goals, hinting at a potential repeat in this matchup.

As the teams prepare for kickoff at Stadion Feijenoord, Inzaghi and his players remain focused on overcoming their current predicaments and making their mark in this prestigious tournament. “We know what work we’ve done to get here, but this is football and this is the calendar we have to face. We move forward with great confidence,” Inzaghi concluded.