Inter Milan take one-goal lead in the Round of 16 of the Champions League as they beat Porto at home. The Nerazzurri could have scored more goals, but they were not clinical in the first half. Porto played a physical game, and Inter had to adapt at the start. Inzaghi decided to start Dzeko ahead of Lukaku. The Belgian striker is still working to get back to full fitness.
Inter decided to dominate from the start as they pushed their wing-backs high and wide. Both Darmian and Dimarco pinned Porto back to their half. Dimarco gave a pinpoint cross to Lautaro in the 13th minute, who was free inside the box. But the Argentine could not keep his header on target. The Nerazzurri worked a brilliant corner in the 17th minute. Calhanoglu played a one-two with Dimarco and then fired his shot. But Costa was quick to push it away.
Porto had their big chance in the 36th minute as Otavio played it to Taremi, who made a run inside the box. The Iranian striker played a cheeky backheel to Grujic, who fired his shot at Onana. The game got heated as Porto were looking to take advantage when Dimarco went down. The Referee had to stop the game as Inter players crowded Otavio.
Lukaku scores a late winner as Inter beat Porto
The Nerazzurri were looking to dominate in the second half as well, but Porto were posing threat on the counter. Onana made a brilliant double save in the 57th minute. Sanusi’s first shot was blocked by Skriniar, and Onana was ready to save the rebound. The former Ajax keeper was alert to keep Taremi’s shot away as well. Inzaghi had to bring some substitutions to regain control of the match. The Nerazzurri were fueled to find a goal after the altercation before the half. Moreover, they got another advantage as Otavio got his second yellow after stamping on Calhanoglu.
Inter finally found their goal, as they pushed their players forward. Barella found Lukaku in the box with a perfect cross. The Belgian managed to rise highest, but his header hit the post. Lukaku fired his volley on the rebound and scored the winner. He had another chance to double the lead, but Costa was alert to save it. Inter now have a crucial one-goal advantage in the tie.
