Inter Milan 1-0 RB Leipzig: Inter edge past Leipzig to claim top spot

A fortunate own goal by Castello Lukeba secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Inter Milan against RB Leipzig, thereby extending the Nerazzurri’s unbeaten home streak in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) to 12 matches (W10, D2).

In their inaugural European encounter, Inter Milan nearly achieved an early lead when Federico Dimarco’s powerful shot from the edge of the area narrowly missed the target.

This near miss foreshadowed Inter's intent to capitalize on their early momentum, as Lautaro Martínez had a low attempt saved by Péter Gulácsi, the Leipzig goalkeeper.

As the first half progressed, Inter maintained their dominance, and their efforts were rewarded in the 27th minute. A well-placed inswinging cross from Dimarco created confusion in the Leipzig defense, leading Lukeba to inadvertently redirect the ball into his own goal.

Having lost all four of their previous matches in the league phase, the visitors sought to establish themselves in the game before halftime, with their defense managing to keep the scoreline to a single goal.

Similar to the first half, Inter started the second half with vigor, as Denzel Dumfries shot over from close range and Hakan Çalhanoğlu had a weak attempt comfortably saved by Gulácsi.

Despite the hosts' persistent pressure, the match remained delicately balanced as it approached the final thirty minutes, with Leipzig threatening an equalizer against the run of play when Antonio Nusa’s curled shot was expertly parried by Yann Sommer.

This near miss provided Marco Rose’s side with renewed hope in the closing stages, but despite their efforts and a few half-chances, Inter held their ground to secure a hard-earned three points.

The outcome extends the hosts’ unbeaten start to the league phase (W4, D1), propelling them to the top of the standings, while Leipzig continues to search for their first point.

SportsLigue