UCL: Inter pick narrow win against Atletico in Round of 16 first-leg

Inter Milan picked a narrow 1-0 win over Atletico Madrid in a tightly contested Champions League Round of 16 first-leg match.

The victory courtesy of Marko Arnautovic’s late goal, gives Inter a slight edge heading into the second leg at the Wanda Metropolitano on March 13.

Despite missing several clear-cut chances, Inter finally found their breakthrough when Arnautovic capitalized on a rebound from Jan Oblak’s save, slotting the ball home from a narrow angle.

The goal came after a period of sustained pressure from Inter, who had dominated possession and created a number of chances throughout the game.

 

The match began with both teams pressuring each other, but it was Inter who looked the more dangerous side in the first half.

Lautaro Martinez had a header saved by Oblak, while Marcus Thuram and Samuel Lino also went close for Inter.

Meanwhile, Thuram was forced off at halftime with an injury, paving the way for Arnautovic’s introduction.

The Austrian forward made an immediate impact, missing a fine chance from close range before eventually finding the net with his second opportunity.

Atletico had their chances to equalize, with Lino and Alvaro Morata going close, but Inter held on for the win.