Inter Milan secure 2-0 win over AC Milan to take control of Champions League semi-final

Inter Milan secured a 2-0 win over AC Milan on Wednesday (May 10) to take control of the Champions League semi-final as they aim to become the first Italian side to win the coveted trophy since doing so in 2010.

Inter scored twice in the opening 15 minutes, with Edin Dzeko finding the net from close range in the eighth minute and Henrikh Mkhitaryan doubling the lead three minutes later at the San Siro. Dzeko also became the second oldest player to score in a Champions League semi-final after Manchester United’s Ryan Giggs.

Although AC Milan had a better showing in the second half, they did not threaten. AC Milan will now face an uphill task in the second-leg of the semi-final to stay on course to win their eighth European Cup.

Inter made a rapid start to the semi-final in the Milan derby as Hakan Calhanoglu delivered a corner, which fell to Dzeko and the striker fired the ball into the top right corner.

Inter, who are the three-time European champions, doubled the lead through Mkhitaryan after Dimarco served him with a brilliant pass and Mkhitaryan entered into Milan’s box to score from close range. Inter could have had added a third one but Calhanoglu was denied by Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

Things could have become worst for Milan, who were without forward Rafael Leao, when Lautaro Martinez went down inside the box just after the half-hour mark. The referee pointed to the penalty spot but his decision was overturned thanks to a VAR review.

Milan created a few chances but Brahim Diaz and Junior Messias missed the target and Sandro Tonali hit the post. Substitute Tommaso Pobega had a late opportunity to reduce the deficit but goalkeeper Andre Onana denied his low effort.

Inter will host Milan in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final on May 16 and the winner will face either Real Madrid or Manchester City in the final.