Inter Milan assistant coach Aleksandar Kolarov admitted his side fell short of their usual standards as the Nerazzurri were forced to settle for a share of the spoils after a 1-1 draw with Fiorentina in Serie A.
Inter made a fast start, taking the lead through Pio Esposito, but the momentum shifted after the break when Cher Ndour equalised for the hosts.
From there, the visitors struggled to regain control, ultimately dropping points in Florence.
Reacting after the final whistle, Kolarov acknowledged the challenge and credited Fiorentina’s response.
“We could see how the match developed in the second half,” said Kolarov.
“We knew it was a crucial three points, but Fiorentina deserve credit as well.
“We didn’t play our best game, but we’re still six points clear at the top and everything is in our hands.”
As the game wore on, Inter’s rhythm dipped: a factor Kolarov attributed to fatigue following a demanding schedule.
“We lacked a bit of sharpness and composure, maybe due to the fatigue from so many matches, and we’re not at our best right now.
“We’re used to seeing an Inter side that controls games, but as I said, we’re six points ahead and it’s up to us to finish the job.”
In addition, the assistant gaffer pointed to issues in build-up play, stressing the need for better service to the attacking line.
“In our style of play, the forwards are key because we draw opponents in and look to find them quickly.
“We needed more quality in our passing and build-up to provide them with better balls.
“Our attackers also help us a lot in controlling the ball and in our overall play.”
With the international break now offering a pause in the campaign, Kolarov believes the timing could be beneficial for recovery and regrouping.
“The international break always helps, we’ll use it to recover players and energy.
“With Inter, everything can seem taken for granted, but you can also draw a match like this against a strong Fiorentina side.
“Being six points clear means we’ve done something right, and that shouldn’t be forgotten.”
Looking ahead, Inter remain firmly in control of the title race, and Kolarov closed by wishing his players well as they depart for international duty.
“The players are now joining their national teams and the important thing is that they stay fit and available. I wish all of them the best of luck.”
All things considered, while the result slows Inter’s momentum, their position at the summit remains strong, leaving them firmly on course as the season enters its decisive stretch.
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