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Inter Milan sink Barca in first-leg semi-final

Last updated on: April 21, 2010 02:26 IST

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

Inter right-back Maicon, 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.