Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi praised the maturity of his side as they beat Fiorentina 2-1 on Sunday to gain ground on leaders Napoli at the top of Serie A.

A 3-0 loss on Thursday to the same opponent away from home had seen Inter lose ground in the title race, but Inzaghi's side managed to avenge that defeat with an important win at home, with the manager delighted with the improvement from his side in the space of four days.

"The players were excellent, we were supported by the fans, and together we won a decisive match for our journey. We approached both halves well, as a mature team," he said.

"We faced Fiorentina as we did on Thursday, and it required patience to move the ball. However, we were faster, better at second balls, and more balanced."

Inzaghi emphasised the importance of recharging his players both physically and mentally after the away defeat, and he was rewarded with a rejuvenated display.

"I tried to lighten the mood for the players, along with the staff. We didn’t do a retreat so they could be with their families," he said.

"I told them not to listen too much [to criticism], and they were good. They didn’t listen, recovering their energy and putting in a great performance, which wasn’t guaranteed."

The victory means Inter are now just a point behind leaders Napoli with both sides having played 24 matches.

"They’re important," he said of the win. "We must continue our journey, which is great both in the Champions League and in the league. We can’t stop; we need to keep going, knowing that there are other teams also who performs well, who aren’t giving up."