Hosts Inter's poor defence allows Valencia to draw 2-2

MILAN - INTER Milan may be 14 points clear at the top of the Italian Serie A after 16 consecutive wins, but their Champions League hopes hang in the balance after a 2-2 home draw against Valencia.

Inter's domestic domination counted for nothing as their poor defending at set-pieces was cruelly exploited by quality opposition in a gripping last-16 first leg at the San Siro on Wednesday.

Valencia, beaten Champions League finalists in 2000 and 2001, survived a first-half onslaught before fighting back twice to earn a precious draw. The result made the Spaniards favourites to reach the quarter-finals.

Esteban Cambiasso put Inter ahead with a close-range header, only for David Villa to equalise with a superb 25-metre free kick.

Brazilian defender Maicon restored Inter's lead, but David Silva levelled the score with a low drive after the home defence had failed to clear a corner.

Inter must now win or get a higher-scoring draw at the intimidating Mestella Stadium in a fortnight to progress.

But the Italian champions remain confident.

'We go to Spain to win and we feel we can do it,' said Inter captain Javier Zanetti.

'Tonight, we had the majority of chances. They had us in trouble from only two dead-ball situations. If we play in Spain like we did tonight, we'll go through.'

Inter's Portuguese winger Luis Figo was equally optimistic.

'We know it will be very difficult, but we're confident,' he said.

Valencia coach Quique Sanchez Flores refused to get carried away, given the quality in Inter's expensively assembled squad.

'For me, our chances are 50-50,' he said. 'I was satisfied with our performance and the result. The thing that pleased me most was the way we reacted after twice going behind.'

Inter's dynamic French midfielder Patrick Vieira missed the match owing to a thigh strain, but should be fit for the return match.

Cambiasso went off with a right leg injury shortly after scoring and is doubtful for the trip to Spain.

Valencia's joy at scoring two away goals was soured slightly by a yellow card for captain David Albelda.

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE