BODØ, Norway – Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni admitted to exaggerating a foul during Saturday’s Serie A match against Juventus, but also revealed his family has received death threats in the aftermath of the incident, speaking at a press conference ahead of Inter’s Champions League playoff match against Bodø/Glimt on Wednesday.
The controversy stems from a challenge in the 77th minute of Inter’s 3-2 victory over Juventus, where Bastoni went to ground following contact with Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu. Kalulu was subsequently shown a second yellow card and sent off. Replays appeared to show minimal contact, leading to accusations of simulation from Juventus and widespread debate in Italian media.
“I wanted to be here because a lot has been said, even more than I imagined,” Bastoni stated at the press conference, held at the Aspmyra Stadion in Bodø. “I waited a few days to review what happened. There was contact on my arm and I clearly exaggerated the fall to try and gain an advantage – I say that without problems. I especially regret my reaction afterwards.”
Bastoni’s admission came as he addressed the intense scrutiny he and his family have faced. “My wife has received death threats and wishes for illness,” he said, adding that the situation was particularly distressing for his family. He also expressed sympathy for referee Federico La Penna, who he said had also been subjected to abuse.
The incident has sparked a wider discussion about gamesmanship in Italian football. Inter coach Cristian Chivu defended Bastoni, drawing a comparison to Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” goal. “Every Sunday, episodes like this happen,” Chivu said. “Maradona scored with his hand, and no one criticized him. We received an unfair penalty against us in Napoli, and I said nothing. We must stop complaining.”
The fallout from the incident has extended to Norway, where Bastoni and Inter are preparing to face Bodø/Glimt. Some Norwegian media outlets have been critical of Bastoni’s actions, with one website labeling him a “cheater” upon his arrival in Bodø. NRK commentator Carl-Erik Torp noted the unusual sight of Inter stars Lautaro Martínez and Nicolò Barella observing the press conference from the back of the room, suggesting a misallocation of focus before a crucial match.
Bodø/Glimt’s defender Jostein Gundersen alluded to the tactical approach Inter often employs, stating that they “employ all the means possible in the book, both legal and a little less legal.” Glimt coach Kjetil Knutsen acknowledged the potential for gamesmanship but expressed confidence in his team’s preparation. “I suppose we are very prepared for what we meet with that Inter team,” Knutsen said.
The match against Bodø/Glimt represents a significant challenge for Inter, as they aim to secure a spot in the Champions League round of 16. The first leg is scheduled for 21:00 local time on Wednesday, with the return leg to be played in Milan next week.
