Champions League: "The Master Tactician Outplays The On-Field Magician"

After a mouth-watering encounter in Italy, defending European champions FC Barcelona were taught a lesson or two by the "Special One".

After conceding a goal from some negligent defending from Brasilian right back Maicon, Inter continued to defend long spells of Barca possession with attack after attack.

But on a day when Messi was no where to be found, and when found had very little impact, Inter took advantge of this and tried to get back with counter attacks.

Initially been frustrated by offside decision, Inter came out much stronger in the second half with a much better attitude and attacking the ball when they lost possession.

Jose Mourinho made sure Messi was contained with the presents of his compatriot Samuel.

With goals from Sneijder, Maicon and Milito, Inter Milan will go into the second leg with a 3-1 advantage to the Nou Camp.

Although Xavi tried his best to find the killer pass, Alves might be unlucky not to be awarded a penalty which could have gone either way, maybe Milito was in an offside position which was not given and the goal awarded. So they might have been the occasional negative decision, but the end result was the right result.

In the second half, Barcelona under pressure showed there weakness and proved that when Messi doesn't show up, Barca doesn't show up.....

Performances from Milito and Sneijder were the stand out from the 22 players on the field, Lucio and Samuel were brilliant in the center of defense.

The second leg will be another scintillating encounter, and with Barcelona needing to get an early advantage the game will only be added with a little more spice...