Madonna on Inter's Youth League victory: "The whole team played a part, it wasn't easy after so long"

NYON - An important victory for Inter’s U-19 side, who returned to the pitch after more than five months and were immediately sent in action in a difficult match. Armando Madonna’s side have booked their place in the UEFA Youth League quarter-finals, scheduled for Wednesday 19 August at 18:00 CEST, also in Nyon, where they will be facing Real Madrid.

The Nerazzurri coach Armando Madonna spoke to Inter TV about the emotional journey of the match: "It wasn't easy after so many months without playing competitively. We've worked a lot in this period, but playing a match is something else entirely. Our attitude was the right one, we entered the field with some real determination and the desire to win.”

"Rennes are a really physical team, we suffered but we defended well, then we found the net and created several chances that could’ve doubled our lead. I think, all in all, we deserved this victory. It's difficult for me to pick my starting eleven, and the players who come in from the bench are a key factor because holding on for 90 minutes isn't easy at the minute. The quality we’ve had coming off the bench has made the difference, but today I want to praise the whole group.”

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The match-winner Casadei also reflected on the victory: "It was a really emotional moment to score such an important goal, both for myself and for the team. I'm chuffed that we got the win. Our tactical approach was key, it wasn't easy after so many months without playing a match. We showed that we’re united as a team and we're happy that we’ve secured our place in the next round. Our thoughts have already turned to the quarter-finals, we will look to perform to the best of our ability.”

Vezzoni also gave his thoughts on the match: "After a long time out of action it was bound to be a tough game. I'm very happy to have provided an assist and that we got the win – it was well deserved. We were confident in our system, we were in control of the match and we booked our place in the next round. They were very strong, but I think we deserved it. especially when you take the full 90 minutes into account. Now we're already turning our thoughts to the next challenge, and we'll do everything we can be ready for it.

To listen to the full interviews, make sure to check out Inter TV's reports on the match.