Romelu Lukaku scored an 82nd-minute penalty as Inter Milan put themselves in a strong position to advance to the semi-finals of the Champions League after securing a deserved win away at Benfica.
In a tightly contested tie, Nicolo Barella's downward header stunned the Portuguese league leaders and gave Inter a priceless advantage.
Benfica struggled to dictate play in front of their own fans as Inter produced a defensive masterclass in Lisbon.
Rafa Silva was denied by Andre Onana's first-half save before Inter's Netherlands defender Denzel Dumfries produced a crucial block from close range as Benfica pushed for an equaliser.
The Italian visitors wrapped up a solid win when substitute Lukaku, on loan from Chelsea, scored from the spot after former Inter player Joao Mario handled inside the box.
Premier League referee Michael Oliver awarded the penalty after watching a replay of the incident on the pitchside monitor, with replays showing the ball struck the side of Mario's head before hitting his hand.
Simone Inzaghi's side will fancy their chances of finishing the job in front of their own fans in the return leg on 19 April (20:00 BST).
Latest Stories
-
IMF Deputy Chief worried large chunk of Eurobonds is used to service debt
14 mins -
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II celebrates 25 years of peaceful rule on golden stool
18 mins -
We have enough funds to pay accruing benefits; we’ve never missed pension payment since 1991 – SSNIT
42 mins -
Let’s embrace shared vision and propel National Banking College – First Deputy Governor
1 hour -
Liverpool agree compensation deal with Feyenoord for Slot
1 hour -
Ejisu by-election: There’s no evidence of NPP engaging in vote-buying – Ahiagbah
2 hours -
Ejisu by-election: Independent ex-NPP MP’s campaign team warns party against dubious tactics
2 hours -
ZEN Petroleum supports Tse-Addo Future Leaders School
3 hours -
NPP must win back Adentan seat in 2024 polls – Obeng Fosu
3 hours -
PPA Clarification: The dark side of the World Bank’s ‘giveaways’ in Ghana by Bright Simons
4 hours -
Blinken says China helping fuel Russian threat to Ukraine
5 hours -
MHA declares May as Purple Month for Mental Health Awareness
5 hours -
WAEC arrests former headmaster over illegal students registration
5 hours -
MeToo founder Tarana Burke defiant after Harvey Weinstein ruling
5 hours -
Be alert, insist on decent messages – Dwumfour tells media
6 hours