Inter Milan & Turkey Superstar Delivers Verdicton On ‘Man Of The Match’ Performance Vs AC Milan: “Important Not To Lose” | OneFootball

Inter Milan star Hakan Calhanoglu delivered a ‘Man of the Match’ performance in tonight’s 1-1 draw against AC Milan in the Coppa Italia.

Speaking to Sport Mediaset via FCInterNews, Calhanoglu underlined the importance of avoiding defeat in a dramatic first leg.

Seeking revenge for a three-game winless run this season, Inter headed into proceedings in high spirits.

Despite missing Lautaro Martinez, among others, Simone Inzaghi’s charges had boasted a six-game winning streak.

However, after Davide Frattesi wasted a glorious chance late in the first half, Inter found themselves on the back foot.

Indeed, Tammy Abraham scored a brilliant solo goal to fire Milan 1-0 up at the start of the second half.

Luckily, the Nerazzurri didn’t have to wait long to score an equalizer.

Former Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu thumped home a superb first-time effort from the edge of the box to level the score.

Inter Milan Star Hakan Calhanoglu Delivers Verdict on Intense Draw vs AC Milan

MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 11: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and Feyenoord at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on March 11, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

After several sub-standard performances, the 31-year-old was the best version of himself this evening.

Indeed, in addition to the goal, Calhanoglu barely put his foot wrong, enjoying a near-spotless game.

“It was a balanced match,” the Turkish star said. “Both teams had chances.

“We conceded a goal we shouldn’t have, but then we equalized. It was important not to lose, especially since we’ll play again.”

Calhanoglu’s equalizer left the tie evenly poised ahead of the return leg later this month.

However, Inter can’t afford to think about that now.

“There’s time for that,” Calhanoglu added. “Right now, we need to focus on Parma – it’s a very important match because we are chasing a big goal.

“We’ll think about the second leg when the time comes.”

The upcoming Serie A clash against Parma will be Inter’s final warm-up ahead of a blockbuster game against Bayern Munich.