Antonio Candreva’s 67th minute goal gave Inter Milan a lead against the run of play, and dominant Southampton failed to take advantage of an Inter red card in a 1-0 loss at the San Siro on Thursday. (video)
The setback was Southampton’s first in Europa League play this season, and costs them the top spot in Group K at the group stage’s midpoint.
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Saints had the edge in shots and attempts on target, but couldn’t get the better of their historic Italian opponents.
Sparta Prague beat Hapoel Be’er Sheva 1-0 to move ahead of Saints on six points. Southampton has four, as does Hapoel. Inter sits fourth with three points.
The winner was a classy goal, by the way, for the 43-times capped Italian winger:
There's no stopping that from Antonio Candreva. Inter lead Southampton, 1-0. #UEL https://t.co/zw5KMRgf6z
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) October 20, 2016
Our own Joe Prince-Wright was on the scene as Saints were very well-represented in Italy.
7,000 strong, incredible support from @SouthamptonFC fans here at the San Siro despite a 1-0 @EuropaLeague defeat to @Inter. #SaintsFC #UEL pic.twitter.com/1qUSRnN6XH
— Joe Prince-Wright (@JPW_NBCSports) October 20, 2016