Mourinho Happy With Inter & Ibra

Jose Mourinho was pleased with Inter’s Champions League win over Panathinaikos tonight, and he has hailed the inspirational Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Sep 16, 2008 11:31:14 PM

Internazionale coach Jose Mourinho looking jovial ahead of his side's weekend clash against Catania.

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Internazionale coach Jose Mourinho looking jovial ahead of his side's weekend clash against Catania.

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Inter Milan

The Nerazzurri produced an efficient display in Athens to win 2-0 thanks to goals from Amantino Mancini and substitute Adriano.

"Tonight I liked the result, the three points, and the grit of the team,” said Mourinho of the opening day Group B victory.

“To win in the Champions League away from home is very difficult, and we had the personality to come here and win. We started well, and our objective is to reach 12 points in the group as soon as possible.”

The star of the show was undoubtedly Ibrahimovic, who was superb throughout, and created both of Inter’s goals.

“He did an incredible job,” said Mourinho.

“His commitment is an example of how to become an exceptional sportsman. His second assist was brilliant. Adriano did great to get into the space and he remained cool in front of the goalkeeper.”

Finally Mourinho stated his belief that Inter could be a major challenger for the Champions League this season.

"It is not easy to change the mentality of a team, but we know that we have the capacity to be one of the most important clubs in the Champions League,” he concluded.

Luca Capofranco