Benitez hopes Inter will ‘learn a lesson’

(GSM) – Internazionale manager Rafael Benítez believes almost throwing away a 4-0 lead against Tottenham Hotspur can teach the European champions a ‘lesson’ on how to defend their lead.

The Nerazzurri, who won 4-3, were dominant until Gareth Bale scored a hat-trick before the final whistle put an end to a thrilling contest.

“Bale is a good player, but let us talk about the game,” said the Coach after the 4-3 result.

“Naturally I am satisfied that we won, but the negative aspect is that after an excellent first half we lacked intensity in the second.

“We have got to learn how to control the game better, as we simply cannot finish like this.

“With 11 men against 10 the tactics weren’t important, as it was all about the mentality. I hope this lapse in concentration can teach Inter a lesson.”

Benítez has warned his team that Tottenham will be difficult to break at White Hart Lane.

“Bale was incredibly fast, more so than our defenders,” continued Benitez.

“At White Hart Lane there will be a difficult match and we must be careful. But you will see, the real Inter was the one seen in the first half.”

Asked whether Inter struggle more to dominate in Serie A than in the Champions League, the Spanish manager said: “The team is also strong in Italy, but it’s true that the Champions League provides a different motivation and in Serie A the opponents are more tactical.”

There were worries for Inter as Dejan Stankovi? and Cristian Chivu limped off, and Benítez explained his decision to take duo off before the end of the encounter.

“Stankovic felt pain in his calf and it was best that he stop straight away, just in case. Chivu went off as he told me that he felt his legs were a bit heavy.”