The Nerazzurri produced a convincing response to their 3-1 defeat against AC Milan in the derby, securing three important Champions League points at De Kuip. Yann Bisseck, Francesco Pio Esposito and Piotr Zielinski scored as Inter controlled the contest against the Dutch side.
Chivu rejected the suggestion that his players had needed to prove themselves after the derby disappointment, instead pointing to the standards and values they have established over recent seasons.
“We have nothing to prove. We know that you can lose games. Given our values and what we have built over the years, we played a serious match, one worthy of what we represent,” he said.
“We know that nothing is guaranteed. Today we managed to add something on a difficult pitch, against a team that is not easy to play against.”
The Inter Milan coach was particularly pleased with his side's willingness to defend in a deeper block and work aggressively to win possession back.
Asked whether he had seen the more pragmatic approach he had previously demanded, Chivu highlighted the commitment shown by his players.
“I saw the ability to stay in a low block, as well as that hunger to win the ball back. We knew we had these qualities within us. It is a question of determination, pride and values. This group has always demonstrated that,” he explained.
Chivu also expects Inter to improve further when several injured players return. He pointed to the importance of having more options during a demanding schedule, with matches coming every three days.
“We have never made a point of talking about our problems. We have a competitive squad that is trying to do its best. We all know what players such as Lautaro, Spence, Jones and Pavard represent,” he said.
“Their returns will allow us to improve. In a calendar where you play every three days, it is important to have plenty of options.”
The result will not erase the derby defeat, according to Chivu, who believes consistency is more important than expecting his team to win every match.
“That cannot happen, but today we came onto the pitch aware of what we have built over the years and of our values. We also know that sometimes games do not finish the way we want,” he said.
“The most important thing is consistency. You have to accept that you cannot always win.”
Chivu added that open discussions within the squad take place after every match, regardless of the result, and are part of the team's efforts to improve.
“Our discussions happen every week, after every game. I am made that way: after each match, I like everyone to be able to speak. It has always worked like that with us,” he said.
“It is a group with healthy values, who enjoy being together, training and improving.”
Asked about the key to beating Feyenoord, Chivu pointed to Inter's intensity and the confidence gained from scoring early.
“Intensity, and the advantage we gained after just a few minutes. After the second goal, it was easier to find the rhythm we wanted,” he said.
“But it was not an easy game. We knew it would be complicated because of the atmosphere in the stadium. After the first goal, we had that extra confidence.”