Manchester City opened their Champions League campaign with a frustrating goalless draw against an impressive Inter Milan at the Etihad Stadium.
In a repeat of the 2023 final, which City won in Istanbul, Inter showcased strong defensive organization and attacking threat, especially in the second half. Pep Guardiola’s side, hindered by an injury to Kevin De Bruyne, who was forced off at halftime, struggled to find their usual fluidity.
City’s star striker Erling Haaland, in search of his 100th goal for the club, was largely kept quiet by Inter’s well-drilled defense. Both sides had their opportunities to break the deadlock but failed to capitalize.
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Phil Foden, coming on as a substitute for the injured De Bruyne, saw his shot saved by Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer, who also made a crucial stop against Josko Gvardiol.
Inter, too, squandered chances, with former Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian attempting an audacious backheel when a straightforward shot seemed the better option. Another former Old Trafford star, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, missed a close-range opportunity, frustrating coach Simone Inzaghi.
