Inter Milan [ Images ] produced a rip-roaring home performance to overpower Barcelona [ Images ] 3-1 and leave the holders in real trouble after an awe-inspiring Champions League [ Images ] first-leg semi-final on Tuesday.

Barcelona, forced to make a 14-hour bus journey to get to Milan, drew first blood when Pedro slotted in Maxwell's pull-back after 19 minutes, but Inter were soon level thanks to the unmarked Wesley Sneijder [ Images ].

Inter right-back Maicon [ Images ], later stretchered off, then put the hosts ahead after a quick breakaway early in the second period and Diego Milito headed in the third to send Inter fans into ecstasy after 61 minutes.

Barca pushed hard for a way back late on but have it all to do in the second leg at the Nou Camp next Wednesday.