Manchester City experienced frustration as they were held to a goalless draw at home by Inter Milan in their Champions League opener.
The match lacked the tension of their previous encounter in the 2023 final, with City struggling to penetrate a well-organized Inter defense that troubled them throughout the game at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite late efforts from Phil Foden and Ilkay Gundogan, it was Inter’s Matteo Darmian and Henrikh Mkhitaryan who squandered the best chances of the night.
City debuted their new “Definitely City” European kit, co-designed by Noel Gallagher, but their performance failed to impress. The team played their usual patient style in the first half, yet they struggled to create clear openings and were often caught out by Inter’s quick counter-attacks.
Had it not been for some poor finishing from the Italians, Pep Guardiola’s side could have found themselves behind early. City managed just one attempt on target in the first half—an easily saved header from Erling Haaland.
Haaland had another opportunity snuffed out by Alessandro Bastoni, while Savinho also missed the target. Most of the goalmouth action came from Inter, with Mehdi Taremi and Marcus Thuram failing to capitalize on their chances.
A misplayed pass from Ederson nearly cost City when Darmian had a shot headed behind by Josko Gvardiol. Thuram shot wide, and Ederson made a crucial save from Carlos Augusto. Darmian later squandered a clear chance, opting for a backheel rather than a shot as he approached goal, much to the disbelief of coach Simone Inzaghi.
The absence of playmaker Kevin De Bruyne, who left the match at halftime due to discomfort, forced City to adapt. Foden returned to the frontline and, along with Gundogan, sparked some attacking life. Foden tested Inter’s keeper, Yann Sommer, with a good shot, while Gvardiol also challenged him.
However, Inter continued to threaten with Lautaro Martinez shooting at Ederson, and Mkhitaryan blasting over from a promising position. The match concluded with both teams unable to secure a victory, leaving City frustrated in their quest for Champions League success.
