Article by Aurelian Botezatu – Published Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 08:53 / Updated Tuesday, February 17, 2026 08:53
Former Italian international Antonio Cassano analyzed the Inter – Juventus (3-2) derby on the “Viva E Futbol” podcast.
A recognized fan of Cristi Chivu, Antonio Cassano claims that the Romanian technician was decisive in Inter's victory in the “Derby d'Italia”. Analysis of the former Italian international?
“Juve didn't deserve to lose. In fact, they deserved to win with a man down for what they did. Under Spalletti, they are playing excellent football. Inter haven't played as well as they have in recent games.
However, I am convinced that Chivu won the matchhaving at one point two important players, Zielinski and Calhanoglu, three strikers and Diouf, who attacked from the right. With a brave formation, 4-2-4, Chivu turned the tables, thanks in part to Pio Esposito,” commented Cassano.
Antonio Cassano on Juventus: “You did more harm than hail”
He also referred to the controversial moment of the match in the 42nd minute when referee Federico La Penna sent off Juventus' Pierre Kalulu with a second yellow for a slight push on Alessandro Bastoni.
“Bastoni simulated, he made a mistake. With another referee, he could have been eliminated. I also simulated in Roma-Brescia and I told the referee Bolognino: “It's a clear penalty”. Montella missed the penalty.
Many now preach Bastoni, from politicians to TV personalities. You should be ashamed of yourself for inciting keyboard warriors by attacking him. Now Juve is the one giving us moral lessons…But don't be a nuisance… You've done more harm than hail.
Inter fans, I tell you to encourage Bastoni in the next home game, to hug him,” Cassano told the Nerazzurri.
Inter is in 1st place in the Serie A standings, 8 points behind Milan, which has a game less played. Cristi Chivu's team is now preparing for the round-robin match with Bodo Glimt, scheduled for Wednesday, from 22:00, in the play-off of the Champions League.
