MANCHESTER, Sept 19, V7N - Inter Milan managed to secure a surprising 0-0 draw against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in their Champions League opener. This result serves as a small measure of revenge for Inter, who lost to City in the 2023 final. The match was characterized by a fast-paced exchange of chances, with both teams failing to capitalize on their opportunities.City struggled to break through Inter's disciplined defense, which was praised by manager Pep Guardiola. He acknowledged the challenge posed by Inter, stating, "They are masters of that... you cannot expect to create a lot of chances." Inter's coach, Simone Inzaghi, expressed pride in his team's performance, emphasizing their need to play at their best against a formidable opponent like City.

Despite dominating possession and firing 22 shots compared to Inter's 13, City only managed five shots on target, one more than their opponents. Erling Haaland, who has been in excellent form this season, narrowly missed several opportunities, including a header that was saved on the line and a low shot that went just wide.Inter's Henrikh Mkhitaryan had a late chance that could have changed the game's outcome but shot over the bar from close range. Similarly, City’s Ilkay Gundogan missed two crucial headers in the dying moments, leaving fans frustrated.City defender Ruben Dias remarked on the intensity of the match, acknowledging Inter's strength and their own near misses. Guardiola noted the importance of the upcoming matches, stating, "We prefer to win, but we have seven games left to advance."

The draw leaves City in a familiar position at the top of the Premier League table, maintaining a perfect record after four games. However, they will need to regroup quickly as they face Arsenal next, who are just two points behind them in the league standings. Meanwhile, Inter sits third in Serie A, looking to build on this positive result as they continue their campaign in both domestic and European competitions.

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