Inter had both centre backs sent off in the first half but the ultra-tough Serie A leaders still battled to a 0-0 home draw with Sampdoria today.

Second-placed Roma can cut the gap to five points with a win over Catania tomorrow but Inter will still feel galvanised for Wednesday's Champions League last 16 first leg at home to manager Jose Mourinho's former side Chelsea.

Walter Samuel caught Nicola Pozzi with his arm as the last man and was given a straight red card on the half hour before Ivan Cordoba picked up a second yellow for a foul on the striker after 39 minutes.

Despite the advantage, fourth-placed Samp failed to impose themselves and had Giampaolo Pazzini dismissed for two bookings in the second half when Inter had the better chances.

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