In a thrilling Champions League quarter-final match, Inter Milan played out a 3-3 draw with Benfica (The Guardian). Inter advanced to the next round with a 5-3 aggregate score, securing a match-up with their local rivals Milan (The Guardian). Despite a late fightback from Benfica, Inter managed to hold on and secure their spot in the semi-finals.
In the build-up to the game, both Inter and Benfica had no injury worries and were expected to field strong lineups (Evening Standard). Inter’s star striker, Romelu Lukaku, was expected to feature prominently alongside Lautaro Martinez (90min). Benfica had their own in-form striker, Darwin Nunez, who was hoping to continue his goal-scoring form (VAVEL.com).
The game itself was full of drama and excitement, with both teams playing attacking football. Inter took the lead early on through a goal from Martinez, but Benfica quickly responded with an equalizer from Adel Taarabt (AS USA). Inter then restored their lead through a goal from Nicolo Barella, but once again Benfica equalized, this time through Rafa Silva (CBS Sports).
Into the second half, Inter once again edged ahead with a goal from Lukaku (Eurosport), but Benfica refused to give up and scored a crucial third goal through Nunez (VAVEL.com). Despite a late push from Benfica, Inter held on to secure their place in the semi-finals.
As the final whistle blew, Inter’s players celebrated their victory while Benfica’s players were left to reflect on what might have been (CBS Sports). Inter now turn their attention to the Milan derby in the next round, while Benfica will have to regroup and prepare for their next challenge (The Guardian).
