Manchester City Held to Frustrating Draw by Resilient Inter

Manchester City opened their Champions League campaign with a frustrating 0-0 draw against a well-organized Inter Milan at Etihad Stadium. In a rematch of the 2023 final, Inter successfully held City in check despite increased pressure in the second half. Kevin de Bruyne’s injury disrupted City’s performance forcing him to be substituted at halftime. Despite the setback, Pep Guardiola praised Inter’s disciplined defending.

Inter’s resolute defense kept Erling Haaland, who was seeking his 100th goal for City, quiet throughout the game. Guardiola acknowledged their effective tactic of surrounding the striker. Phil Foden, who replaced De Bruyne in the second half, created two chances but Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer denied him along with making crucial saves against Josko Gvardiol and Ilkay Gundogan.

Inter posed a consistent threat on the counter and squandered several opportunities including a backheel from Matteo Darmian and a close-range miss by Henrikh Mkhitaryan which left coach Simone Inzaghi visibly frustrated on the touchline. Inzaghi’s animated presence reflected his team’s energy as they proved formidable opponents for the reigning champions.

Manchester City, who had not failed to score at home in the Champions League since October 2022 struggled to find their usual rhythm. Despite the setback, Guardiola expressed satisfaction with his team’s overall performance against such a strong defensive opponent. Concerns now turn to De Bruyne’s fitness ahead of their crucial league clash against Arsenal but Foden’s return from illness provided a positive takeaway on an otherwise frustrating night.