Manchester City were held to a 0-0 draw by Inter Milan at the Etihad Stadium in their opening match of the UEFA Champions League campaign.
In a repeat of the 2023 Champions League final, City struggled to break down a well-organized Inter side that consistently posed an attacking threat.
Inter, who narrowly lost to City in the previous final, demonstrated determination and discipline, frustrating the home team throughout the match. City’s efforts were further impacted by the injury to playmaker Kevin de Bruyne, who was substituted at halftime.
Phil Foden came on but couldn’t change the dynamic, as Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer made a series of impressive saves.
Despite increasing pressure in the second half, City found it difficult to convert their chances.
Sommer denied both Foden and Josko Gvardiol, while star striker Erling Haaland, in search of his 100th goal for the club, was effectively contained by Inter’s resolute defense.
Inter also had opportunities to claim victory. Former Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian attempted an ambitious backheel instead of taking a straightforward shot, while Henrikh Mkhitaryan fired over from close range, much to the frustration of coach Simone Inzaghi.
City nearly snatched a dramatic late winner when Foden’s shot was saved, and Ilkay Gundogan missed two headed chances inside the box.
Looking ahead, Manchester City will aim for their first win in the revamped Champions League when they travel to face Slovan Bratislava in their next match.
