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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE/Barcelona 2 Inter Milan 0:AS THE final whistle went last night, the nerves that had gripped Barcelona before this game seemed barely plausible. The holders were on the verge of not even progressing out the group. Instead, they top it having produced a display of control and quality that left Jose Mourinho’s side looking utterly impotent. For all their domestic dominance, European excellence continues to elude Inter.

Barcelona lead Group F on eight points with a trip to Dynamo Kiev to come after a 2-0 victory secured with first-half goals from Gerard Pique and Pedro Rodriguez. Inter are second on six points and must at least draw with Rubin Kazan and hope that Kiev do not beat Barcelona on the final match day. Even if they progress, this display did not stir optimism.