Manchester City were held to a 0-0 draw by Inter Milan at the Etihad Stadium in their opening match of the UEFA Champions League campaign.
In a repeat of the 2023 Champions League final, City found it tough to break down a well-organised Inter side that posed a constant attacking threat.
Inter, who narrowly lost to City in the previous final, showed determination and discipline, frustrating the home side throughout the match. City’s chances were further hindered by the injury of playmaker Kevin de Bruyne, who was forced off at halftime. Phil Foden replaced him but was unable to make the difference as Inter’s goalkeeper Yann Sommer produced a string of fine saves.
Despite City’s increased pressure in the second half, they struggled to convert their chances. Sommer thwarted both Foden and Josko Gvardiol, while star striker Erling Haaland, aiming for his 100th goal for City, was kept quiet by a resolute Inter defense.
Inter themselves had opportunities to snatch a victory. Former Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian opted for an ambitious backheel instead of a straightforward shot, while Henrikh Mkhitaryan fired over from close range, much to the frustration of coach Simone Inzaghi.
City nearly secured a dramatic late winner when Foden’s shot was saved, and Ilkay Gundogan missed two headed chances in the box.
Despite the result, Manchester City will be aiming to secure their first win in the revamped Champions League when they travel to face Slovan Bratislava in their next game.
