Conte: "We deserved more given how we played during the group"

MILAN – Romelu Lukaku’s goal wasn’t enough for Inter against Barcelona in their final group game of this season’s Champions League. It finished 2-1 to the Blaugrana at the Meazza, meaning the Nerazzurri have been forced to settle for third place in Group F.

“We had chances to win the game, big ones too,” said Antonio Conte after the match. “We were just lacking that bit of ruthlessness and precision to finish off what we created. I honestly can’t really fault my players because they gave everything. We were pushing as hard as we could and missed a few opportunities before they then scored to make it 2-1, a goal which really finished us off. I’m disappointed for the boys and for the fans who were in attendance at San Siro, I’d like to thank them because they created an atmosphere that pushed us on from start to finish.

“I think we deserved more given how we played during the group. We had great desire to go further in the competition but unfortunately it went the way it did. We need to roll up our sleeves and continue to work in order to improve these lads. We need to get back on our feet immediately and resume our journey. We are doing big things at a time when it isn’t easy for us. Two matches remain before Christmas and then we’ll be able to get some players back, we need them.”