Inter Milan ease past Manchester City in US friendly

Inter Milan comfortably disposed of Manchester City with a 3-0 victory in the English club’s final match of their US pre-season tour.

The current Champions League holders outclassed their Premier League opponents despite the relatively strong side fielded by City.

With their World Cup stars not featuring, Inter were substantially weakened, but the Serie A side still managed to dominate proceedings for large portions of the game.

And Rafael Benítez’s team were aided by the early dismissal of Patrick Vieira for a reckless elbow on Marco Materazzi.

In the wake of the sending off, Nigeria winger Victor Obinna opened the scoring in the 38th minute.

The midfielder then doubled Inter’s lead after his cross was deflected past Shay Given shortly after the break.

Cristiano Biraghi inflicted further misery on the Premier League outfit as he produced a stunning goal from 35 yards in the 74th minute.

City boss Roberto Mancini was not present in Baltimore as the 45-year-old had returned to Italy at short notice to tend to his sick father.

Meanwhile Benítez was pleased with the manner of the victory.

“I am really pleased with the performance of the team,” said the Spanish coach. “They played really well.

“Our idea is to improve our fitness and also give time to our younger players on the pitch. We got to do both.”