Oof, that's another injury blow for AC Milan. Alessandro Nesta is off for reasons that aren't entirely clear but definitely aren't tactical, because it's not-very-defensive fullback Djamel Mesbah who replaces him. Barcelona are difficult enough to beat at full strength, but Milan have now been forced into two injury-related substitutions and have none left to play with.
AC Milan Vs. Barcelona, 2012 UEFA Champions League: Nesta Injured, Replaced By Mesbah
Barcelona do have subs left - Pedro is on for the impressive Alexis Sanchez. The visitors instantly go on the attack, and Cristian Tello combines with Lionel Messi to free up the latter near the penalty spot. A goal looks imminent until a wonderful block by Massimo Ambrosini deflects the ball behind for a corner. Carles Puyol nearly puts the ball in the back of the net from said corner with a quite wonderful diving header, but the ball trickles just wide of Christian Abbiati's far post with the goalkeeper helpless. Still 0-0, about ten minutes plus stoppages to go.
Follow Milan and Barcelona live in this story stream as we constantly update you with the latest news from both Champions League quarterfinal matches today. For more on the hosts, visit AC Milan Offside, and for the visitors check out Barca Blaugranes.
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