Inter Milan & Italy Defender Adamant 'We Gave Our Best' In Fluminense Defeat
Speaking to InterTV via FCInterNews, the 35-year-old hailed Inter's approach despite an unfavorable outcome.
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Goals from German Cano and Hercules condemned the Nerazzurri to a 2-0 defeat at the Bank of America Stadium.
Despite a strong pre-match favoritism, Cristian Chivu's side showed little on the pitch, especially in the first half.
Furthermore, a miscommunication between Stefan de Vrij and Yann Sommer helped Fluminense grab an early opener.
Then, they found it difficult to break the Brazilian side's low defensive block.
Moreover, Inter's aggressive approach often left ample room for Fluminense on the counter.
Although the Nerazzurri got away several times, Hercules put the final nail in the coffin of their comeback hopes in stoppage time.
Matteo Darmian Praises Inter Milan Approach vs Fluminense
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 30: Matteo Darmian of FC Internazionale looks on during the warm up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Udinese at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on March 30, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by)
'There's disappointment because everyone's intention was to go through,' Darmian admitted after the game.
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'Unfortunately, we didn't manage, even though we did everything we could to come back after going behind early.
'In the second half, we gave everything we had, making the maximum effort.
'We were a bit unlucky. They punished us on the only two chances they had.
'We accept this defeat and take responsibility. Now we'll take a short break and prepare for the next season.'
Though the pitch wasn't in the best condition, Matteo Darmian refused to use it as an excuse for a dismal result.
'It can't be an excuse,' he added. 'It was hot for them too and the pitch wasn't great. We take our share of responsibility and look ahead.'
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Finally, he had a message for the Nerazzurri faithful after yet another disappointment.
'The message is certainly that they deserve our thanks for everything they've done for us, for their support.
'On our end, we tried to give our best from day one to the last. We'll start again, as we've always done.'
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