Inter Milan advanced to the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in over ten years after a goalless draw in the second leg of their last-16 match against Porto at Estadio do Dragao. The 1-0 aggregate scoreline ensured their progression to the next round.
The home fans at a packed Dragao stadium had a disappointing night as the Portuguese champions attempted but failed to overcome the slim margin from the first leg in Italy.
Despite Porto’s efforts, a well-organized Inter team were satisfied with preserving their advantage and only faced significant pressure during stoppage time.
Porto hit the crossbar twice in rapid succession, but their hopes were ultimately dashed when Pepe received his second yellow card, resulting in a red, as Inter advanced to the quarter-final draw alongside their city rivals AC Milan.
Onana pulled off an impressive save to deny Mateus Uribe’s 25-yard attempt, but the hosts enjoyed the better opportunities in the opening half.
Taremi’s curling shot missed the mark, while Federico Dimarco’s superb sliding tackle thwarted Evanilson’s effort.
Additionally, an enticing low cross went not converted as Stephen Eustaquio failed to make contact.
In the second half, Uribe attempted a shot that went over the goal, while Onana saved Marko Grujic’s attempt, and Denzel Dumfries from Inter cleared a shot that was going in.
Despite their efforts, the home team was unable to score as Inter defended exceptionally well.
Diogo Costa, the home team’s goalkeeper, denied Edin Dzeko’s angled strike, which was the best opportunity for the visitors.
Inter, who have won the European championship three times, will be in the quarter-final draw along with AC Milan, Bayern Munich, Benfica, Chelsea, and Manchester City.
Napoli, the leaders of Serie A, who are 18 points ahead of Inter, could be the third Italian team to qualify if they maintain their 2-0 lead over Eintracht Frankfurt in the second leg on Wednesday.
Real Madrid is leading 5-2 against Liverpool after their first-leg victory at Anfield.
Inter’s last appearance in the quarter-finals of the Champions League was 12 years ago when they lost 7-3 on aggregate to the German side Schalke.
The quarter-final draw will take place on Friday at 11:00 GMT at Uefa’s headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland.
Collins Nwokolo
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