Fikayo Tomori isn’t getting carried away after AC Milan beat Inter in the derby again, insisting that the team must focus on themselves.
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Milan secured their first league double over Inter since 2010-11 thanks to a first-half goal from Pervis Estupinan, who took advantage of a great pass from Youssouf Fofana and found the top corner. That would be the only goal in the game, as the Rossoneri cut the gap to seven points.
It was another performance of stoic defensive work, continuing a trend in the big games under Massimiliano Allegri so far this season. Inter – albeit without Lautaro and Marcus Thuram – rarely troubled Mike Maignan, with the whole unit doing a great job to cut off any service.
Tomori spoke to CBS Sports Golazo after the final whistle to give his thoughts on the game, having recorded another clean sheet in the derby. His words were transcribed by MilanNews.
Is the Scudetto still possible?
“Who knows? At this point, we just have to focus on ourselves. Obviously, tonight was an important match, and I’m happy we managed to win: a great performance against a very, very strong team.
“The Derby is always a special match and always a tough one. We’re happy we won: now we’ll enjoy this evening and focus on finishing the season strong.”
Was the key to start more aggressively?
“In these kinds of games, the coach doesn’t have to say much. It’s a derby, and we know how important it is for the club, for us, and for the fans. We knew that the way we approached the first half could put them under pressure, and we would have had chances to score, as we did.
“We could have scored again in the first half, we had other dangerous chances. In the end, we’re very happy with the three points.”
How do you feel playing on the right of the three-man defence?
“Yes, I feel good. I have several qualities, but my main job is to defend. In games like today where there’s space, you can make an impact by running forward: that’s very important. We’re working hard on it.”
Do you think you’re achieving your goals after last year’s eighth-placed finish?
“One of our main goals was to concede fewer goals. I think we’ve been much more solid defensively this season, not just the defenders but the entire team. We’ve worked hard to stay connected. Playing against Inter and not conceding a goal isn’t easy. I think that’s a testament to the work we’ve done.”