Inter overcome Barcelona - What the European papers say
The Sport Review takes a look at the European media's reaction Inter Milan's 3-1 success over Barcelona at the San Siro Pep Guardiola (Photo: Tsutomu Takasu)
The Sport Review takes a look at the European media’s reaction to Inter Milan’s 3-1 success over Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg.
“Inter – A night of glory!”
Gazzetta dello Sport leads with a slogan that salutes the Italian champions for their tremendous achievement. Inter claimed a memorable 3-1 victory that will remain present in the minds of the 80,000 spectators for a long time. The Italian paper proudly proclaims that the “European champions can be beaten if you put them on the ropes”.
The author of the piece remarks that the first two goals of the night came from defensive errors; the kind of mistakes that “a defensive coach like Jose Mourinho will not fail to notice”. Amongst the drama there was the return of Zlatan Ibrahimovic who was treated to a “torrent of boos” from the passionate Nerazzurri fans.
Diego Milito endeavoured to work the channels all night and was duly awarded for his hard work with the third goal. The San Siro acknowledged the contribution of the Argentine with the stadium “trembling with applause” as he was substituted with cramp.
“Mourinho – I signed for this!”
Corriere dello Sport tells how “Inter overwhelmed the beautiful Barcelona” in Milan. The article calls it “an extraordinary night” which was made even more special because the Italian champions battled from behind to overcome their Spanish counterparts.
Despite Pedro’s 17th minute goal Inter regrouped and “played the perfect game”. Goals from Wesley Sneijder and Maicon edged Mourinho’s men into the lead. “The Prince” (Diego Milito) added a third just after the 60th minute causing “the San Siro to erupt”.
The first leg leaves Inter with a two goal advantage and a chance to make history and reach an elusive Champions League Final in the Spanish capital.
“Barca fall into Inter’s trap”
Spanish newspaper Marca describes the night as the first time Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona were “out played by the opposition”. Jose Mourinho managed to “nullify all of the weapons” that the holders possessed.
The key factor was the “neutralising of Xavi’s influence” in Barcelona’s midfield. The impact of former Inter Milan star Zlatan Ibrahimovic was crucial too and the Swedish international “disappeared” in the San Siro. Meanwhile Diego Milito was in a “state of grace” as he displayed himself to be one of the best strikers in Europe.
