JAKARTA - Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi praised Liverpool as one of the favorite teams in the Champions League. However, he believes his team have the quality to match them in the first leg of the last 16 of the European competition on Thursday night.
Inter for the first time in a decade have qualified for their Champions League last 16 after finishing runners-up in Group D behind Real Madrid.
"Liverpool are one of the best teams in Europe, but our players also deserve to play in this match," Inzaghi told reporters ahead of the match.
"We haven't played in the last 16 for many years and although it will be very difficult, we will try to qualify for the next stage."
"On paper, Liverpool are the favourites, but the game has to go on. I would ask the players to come on to the pitch and play our football with a free mind, show our ideas. Determination will make the difference."
Inzaghi highlighted the threat of Liverpool's counter-attack and praised the quality of their two full-backs Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson.
Edin Dzeko is expected to start from the start of the game along with Alexis Sanchez and Lautaro Martinez.
"We have played a lot of games recently. We have two training sessions left, one striker will be included as a substitute. I will make the final decision today or tomorrow. I always try to rotate them," said Inzaghi.
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