Inter Milan hold Man City to surprise 0-0 draw in Champions League opener
Inter Milan produced a resolute defensive display to hold Manchester City to a goalless draw at the San Siro in their Champions League opener on Wednesday.
The Italian champions frustrated Pep Guardiola's side with a deep-lying defence and limited them to just one shot on target, while they also created chances of their own on the break.
Here are the key talking points from the match:
Inter's defensive masterclass
Inter manager Simone Inzaghi set his team up in a 3-5-2 formation, with the wing-backs dropping deep to form a back five when City had possession.
This made it difficult for City to break down the Inter defence, and they were limited to just one shot on target in the entire match.
Inter's defenders were also excellent in the air, winning most of the aerial duels against City's attackers.
City's lack of cutting edge
Despite dominating possession and having the majority of the chances, City were unable to find a way past Inter's defence.
Erling Haaland was well-marshalled by Inter's centre-backs, while Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden were unable to create clear-cut chances for their teammates.
City's only shot on target came in the second half when Haaland headed over from a De Bruyne cross.
Inter's threat on the break
Despite their defensive approach, Inter still managed to create chances on the break.
Lautaro Martinez and Edin Dzeko both had good opportunities to score in the first half, but they were unable to find the target.
Inter also looked dangerous from set-pieces, with Milan Skriniar going close with a header from a corner in the second half.
Conclusion
Inter's 0-0 draw with Manchester City was a surprise result, but it was fully deserved.
Inzaghi's side produced a resolute defensive display and limited City to very few chances.
Inter also created their own chances on the break and could have won the match with a bit more luck.
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