Inter Milan beat Barcelona at the San Siro and claim the second position in their group. The Nerazzurri were a different side last night as they had a clear game plan. After a disappointing start to the season, it seemed like Inter had lost the plot. But Inzaghi had a clear plan for this game despite missing key players like Brozovic and Lukaku he managed to get a 1-0 win. Calhanoglu was number 6 for this game and made the difference with his strike.
Barcelona were dominating possession right from the start. The Nerazzurri had a compact mid-block and a low defensive line to give them less space. Also, Inter were lethal on the break and had a couple of chances at the start. Calhanoglu let one fly from distance, but Ter Stegen saved the shot on time. Inter had a shout for a penalty after a handball from Garcia inside the box. But there was offside in build-up after the VAR check.
Barca could not create any threatening chance as Inter were solid in defending. Dimarco kept Dembele quiet as the French forward could not deliver crosses in the box. The Nerazzurri finally got their goal on the break. It was a well-structured attack from Inter as they found space while playing on the counter. Dimarco played a perfect ball to the Turkish midfielder. Calhanoglu went for the bottom corner this time giving Ter Stegen no chance.
Inter Milan beat Barcelona in a close encounter
Barcelona had a higher defensive line in the second half to suffocate Inter in their half. Dembele and Raphinha had now switched their positions to be more effective. But they were not quick enough to find space and create a chance. Inzaghi brought Dzeko in for Correa to help Inter have a target for long balls.
Xavi made some changes and had an instant impact as Pedri scored a goal. However, there was a clear handball from Fati during the build-up. Inter were now more cautious without the ball in covering the gaps. Inzaghi made subs to have fresh legs in defense as Inter were now sitting back and soaking all the pressure.
There was late drama in the match as eight minutes of stoppage time was given. Barcelona appealed for a penalty as Dumfries used his hand to deny Fati of the ball inside the box. But the referee denied, and Xavi and other players were furious with the decision. Inter managed to hold on to their lead this time and will get a huge boost from this win.
