Inter battled to a 2-1 win over an impressive Chelsea to hold a slight advantage after their Champions League last-16 first leg at the San Siro on Wednesday.
Home striker Diego Milito netted on three minutes when he easily turned John Terry and fired in at the near post from six metres, prompting little reaction from Inter's former Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho who had promised not to celebrate.
The Londoners dominated a thrilling game for long spells and Salomon Kalou deservedly equalised on 51 minutes with a 20-metre shot before Esteban Cambiasso soon put the hosts back ahead after his first effort had been blocked.
Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti, who spent eight years at the San Siro as AC Milan boss, will still be confident of winning the second leg in London on March 16 given his side's display.