The ageless Džeko saves Inter as they step into the Champions League final after a 2-0 win over their rivals

Inter Milan dominated the first leg of the Champions League semi-final in Milan, beating rivals AC 2-0. Edin Džeko and Henrik Mkhitaryan struck the key blows in the first 15 minutes.

Inter entered the match actively and took the lead from the sixth minute, with Edin Džeko scoring from a free kick. And AC didn’t give up and it was two goals up, Henrik Mkhitaryan took advantage of the defensive confusion and gave the goalkeeper no chance.

AC were really on fire, Hakan Calhanoglu had the third goal but only hit the bar and the finish was blocked by the defence. After that AC picked up a bit, playing in the attacking half, but not getting any dangerous shots.

It could have been worse in the 31st minute, but the penalty after Lautaro Martinez fell was called back by the head referee after consulting VAR.

AC did not threaten properly until the very end of the first half, but Alexis Saelemaekers did not finish his solo effort.

After the change of sides, Messias Junior fired in the home side’s best chance, but missed the target with his left foot from just outside the box. At the other end, Džeko missed a lying chance, Mike Maignan stretched and cleared the ball.

Derby continued to entertain at a good pace, Sandro Tonali had a reduction, but his shot from the edge of the box hit the left post. In the 74th minute Inter threatened through Matteo Darmian, but his shot hit the defensive wall.

In the end, the home side were struggling, frustration was evident, while Inter finished the game with experience. When Tommaso Pobega threw away the last chance in stoppage time, it was clear that Inter would go into next Tuesday’s rematch with a two-goal lead.

Source: Nova Sport 3