CSKA Moscow`s slender hopes of qualification for the play-off stages of the Champions League were snuffed out in Milan on Wednesday as the Russians surrendered a two-goal lead to Inter, losing 4-2.

Needing a victory to maintain even a mathematical chance of progress in Europe`s most prestigious club competition, CSKA made a dream start at the San Siro, their two Brazilian strikers, Jo and Vagner Love, putting the team 2-0 up with goals in the 22nd and 30th minutes, respectively.

However, that lead lasted all of 180 seconds, as Inter struck back with two swift goals through Ibrahimovic and Cambiasso.

The second-half saw Inter`s class tell, as Cambiasso scored again in the 67th minute, followed by Ibrahimovic`s second in the 75th, the Swede sealing victory with an extraordinary long-range strike.

Both goals left CSKA`s goalkeeper, Igor Akinfeyev, back in the side following a six-month injury layoff, with no chance.

CSKA remain bottom of Group G with one point. In order to take third place in the group, and a spot in the UEFA Cup, they will most likely have to win their last two matches, against PSV Eindhoven in Moscow on November 27th, and away to the Turkish side, Fenerbahce, on December 12th.
sections: Sport