Inter Milan secured their place in the Champions League quarter-finals with a decisive victory over Feyenoord at San Siro, sealing their progress with a strong performance over both legs.
Thuram’s brilliance and Feyenoord’s brief hope
Marcus Thuram opened the scoring with an impressive solo effort, weaving into the penalty area before unleashing a powerful strike into the top corner. His goal put Inter ahead on the night and extended their aggregate lead to 3-0.
Feyenoord managed to pull one back after Hakan Calhanoglu committed a foul on Jakub Moder inside the box. The former Brighton midfielder confidently dispatched the resulting penalty, offering the Dutch side a glimmer of hope.
However, Inter restored their two-goal cushion when Thomas Beelen fouled Mehdi Taremi inside the area. Calhanoglu stepped up to take the spot-kick and made amends for his earlier error, slotting the ball past the goalkeeper.
Inter control the game as Feyenoord struggle to convert chances
With captain Lautaro Martinez starting on the bench, Thuram nearly added another goal, narrowly missing the target with a shot that sailed over the crossbar. The French forward was a constant attacking threat, demonstrating his growing influence in the team.
Despite creating a handful of opportunities, Feyenoord found it difficult to trouble Inter’s defense. Yann Sommer made a crucial save to deny Hugo Bueno’s long-range attempt, and Givairo Read saw his effort blocked as the visitors struggled to convert their chances.
Simone Inzaghi’s men maintained their composure and saw out the match comfortably, securing a meeting with Bayern Munich in the next round as they aim for a second Champions League final in three seasons.
Thuram and Calhanoglu shine on a memorable night
Thuram continued his fine form in Europe, scoring in consecutive Champions League matches for the first time in his career. The striker joined an exclusive group, becoming only the second Inter player to find the net in both legs of a Champions League knockout tie since Dejan Stankovic in the 2005-06 season.
Although his evening was slightly marred by a yellow card for simulation, Thuram nearly capped his performance with another goal, striking the crossbar after a dazzling run past three defenders.
Meanwhile, Calhanoglu made history as the first Turkish player to reach double figures in both goals and assists in the competition. After conceding the penalty that allowed Feyenoord to score, he showed composure from the spot to restore Inter’s lead, reinforcing his importance to the team’s success.
