Stefano Pioli believes Fiorentina “played on level terms with Inter and deserved a different result,” while criticising several refereeing decisions.
“I can’t help but be satisfied with the performance of my team, even though we made a huge mistake on their second goal from a throw-in,” Pioli told Sky Sport Italia after a 2-1 defeat.
Stefano Pioli believes Fiorentina “played on level terms with Inter and deserved a different result,” while criticising several refereeing decisions.
“I can’t help but be satisfied with the performance of my team, even though we made a huge mistake on their second goal from a throw-in,” Pioli told Sky Sport Italia after a 2-1 defeat.
Mauro Icardi’s penalty was the turning point, as Antonio Candreva’s cross grazed Vitor Hugo’s arm and it was awarded using VAR.
“I never taught my defenders to go towards a cross with their arms behind their back, because you have to run. When you hear talk of the fingertips moving with the ball, that’s just being so picky. I don’t think this is a penalty, because he does nothing to go looking for the ball.
“I would’ve liked to see VAR on the second Kwadwo Asamoah yellow card on Federico Chiesa and also the challenge on Chiesa in the box. It’s a pity, as we played really well against a very good team.
“It was hard-fought, both sides tried to press and win back possession. We got the game back in hand after the break and had chances to take the lead, but against a side like Inter, you are always at risk of conceding.
“We weren’t efficient enough in front of goal, but the performance was certainly better than against Napoli. We played on level terms with Inter and deserved a point, but admittedly it was a horrible error for the winning goal and we’ll learn from that.
“We love playing a certain type of football, but the game is decided in the two penalty areas and that’s where Inter were stronger tonight. I saw a great attitude and approach, the desire to win and take control at San Siro, so that’s what I want to see.
“It’s a pity, we deserved to leave here with a different result, but there are many more positives than negatives from this game.”
After conceding the Danilo D’Ambrosio goal against the run of play, the Viola seemed to have the wind knocked out of their sails.
“Anyone who has played football knows that the mind makes the difference over 95 minutes. A young side like mine that knew it was taking control and should’ve had a penalty, then moments later concedes a silly goal from a throw-in, that’s going to knock you down.
“It’s a pity, but it’s a learning experience and we’ll do better.”