Inter Milan Defeats Atlético Madrid In Champions League Clash

Inter players celebrate after the Champions League, round of 16, first leg soccer match between Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid, at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024. (AP Ph

Inter Milan secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Atlético Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 on Tuesday. Marko Arnautovic emerged as the hero for Inter, coming off the bench to score the winning goal 11 minutes from time after replacing the injured Marcus Thuram at halftime.

Thuram suffered a muscle injury in his right thigh, and Inter will be hoping for his swift recovery ahead of the second leg in Madrid on March 13. Inter coach Simone Inzaghi praised Arnautovic for his impact, highlighting the importance of seizing opportunities in the game.

Inter's win extended their unbeaten streak to nine matches this year, showcasing their strong form in both domestic and European competitions. The Italian side, last year's surprise Champions League finalist, appears to have elevated their performance level this season.

Marko Arnautovic scored the winning goal for Inter Milan after coming off the bench.

Inter Milan defeated Atlético Madrid 1-0 in the Champions League round of 16 first leg.

Inter extended their unbeaten streak to nine matches this year.

Atlético Madrid faced their third loss in four matches.

PSV Eindhoven and Borussia Dortmund played out a 1-1 draw.

Inter's victory highlighted their determination in both domestic and European competitions.

Atlético Madrid failed to register a single shot on target at San Siro.

The return leg between Inter and Atlético promises to be thrilling.

Inter aims to replicate last year's Champions League success.

Atlético Madrid, on the other hand, faced their third loss in four matches, failing to register a single shot on target at San Siro. Despite the defeat, Atlético coach Diego Simeone remained optimistic about his team's chances in the return leg at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium.

In the other match on Tuesday, PSV Eindhoven and Borussia Dortmund played out a 1-1 draw, setting up an intriguing second leg in their round of 16 tie. Inter's victory over Atlético showcased their determination to continue their success in both the Champions League and Serie A.

The match at San Siro saw a cagey first half before Inter's attacking prowess came to the fore, with Lautaro Martínez and Arnautovic leading the charge. Despite Atlético's defensive efforts, Inter's relentless pressure paid off with Arnautovic's decisive goal late in the game.

Inter's strong performance in the first leg sets the stage for an exciting return fixture in Madrid, where Atlético will look to bounce back and overturn the deficit. With both teams aiming for a spot in the quarterfinals, the second leg promises to be a thrilling encounter between two top European sides.

Inter Milan's victory over Atlético Madrid underscores their ambition in the Champions League this season, as they aim to replicate last year's success and make a deep run in the competition.

For more soccer news and updates, visit AP Soccer.