Tireless 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 semi-final, first leg on Tuesday.
First blood went to Barca, forced to make a 14-hour bus journey to get to Milan, 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.