Inter Milan were back in the UEFA Champions League’s knockout stage for the first time in a decade. They looked good and seemed poised to take the lead, but Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah spoiled the party and earned Liverpool a crucial win.
Liverpool Secure Crucial Win at Inter Milan
A Refreshingly Entertaining Affair
The previous night, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid worried many fans that the removal of the away goals rule would result in more boring football. Inter and Liverpool dispelled that concern – at least temporarily – and put on a good show.
The match was characterised by high energy and a willingness to go forward. The hosts, in particular, lead the way early on. Hakan Çalhanoğlu struck the bar in the 16th minute, following a great display by Ivan Perišić. Regardless, the visitors constantly remained on par with the hosts, boasting more shots, albeit zero on target. However, since Inter possess one of the best back-three in the world, Liverpool’s initial struggle to find good chances was understandable.
Inter Impressive, But Ultimately a Deserved Win for Liverpool
Inter experienced a great period early in the second half. They were positively aggressive after losing the ball, and defender Alessandro Bastoni often momentarily left the back-three to participate in attacks. Then came a mouthwatering triple substitution from Liverpool, all of which proved to be valuable. It especially enabled The Reds to slow down I Nerazzurri and enjoy more possession.
Edin Džeko’s disallowed offside goal further dampened Inter’s evening, but not as much as Roberto Firmino, who gave Liverpool the lead with a splendid header from a great Andrew Robertson corner kick. A tough blow for Inter after a good and offensively optimistic performance. The nail in the coffin came shortly afterwards when Mohamed Salah added a second. Liverpool will battle Inter again at Anfield on March 8 to determine who reaches the quarter-finals.
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