Yann Sommer almost made himself an Inter hero. In the penalty shootout against Atletico Madrid, he parried Saul Niguez’s attempt with his thigh and brought his team back into the lead in the short decision. Previously, Alexis Sanchez, a Milanese player, had already missed – after two shooters everything was open again.
But luck didn’t stay on Sommer’s side. The Swiss national goalie was unable to parry another attempt, while his teammates’ nerves failed twice. First, Davy Klaassen was denied by Jan Oblak, before Lautaro Martinaz, the fifth shooter, put the ball well over the box. Last year’s Champions League finalist had to say goodbye to the premier class after losing 3-2 in the penalty shootout.
First leg win not converted
This is bitter for the Milanese as they traveled to Madrid with a 1-0 lead from the first leg. But with the score even and as the second leg continued, Atletico became stronger and Inter became less confident. And the longer the game lasted, the more it became apparent that the game would be extended.
Driven by the fans in the Metropolitano, Atletico actually achieved the 2-1 they needed for overtime. In the 85th minute, Memphis Depay hit the post with a powerful finish. But two minutes later the Dutchman did better. Played beautifully, he gave Sommer no chance with a low shot.
And the Madrilenians almost decided the game in regular time. But after a perfect cross from the swirling Antoine Griezmann, Rodrigo Riquelme missed from the best position to make it 3-1. His shot from the inside of the instep sailed over the crossbar, and seconds later extra time was a fact.
Good Inter start
The game actually started optimally for Inter. After both teams had chances in the first half hour but were unable to succeed, the guests were able to celebrate for the first time in the 33rd minute. Federico Dimarco was nicely cleared and scored with a precise finish from around 10 meters.
However, Milan’s lead only lasted for a short time. Two minutes after the score was 0-1, Atletico responded with an equalizer. Griezmann received a deflected ball, turned and fed the ball into the net. Sommer in goal was powerless – as was the case later in the penalty shootout, when his teammates missed a bunch.
This is how it goes
The quarterfinals will be drawn on Friday. These will take place on the 9th/10th. April (first legs) and 16/17. April (second legs).