Inter Milan have taken a big step towards progressing in the Europa League after a 3-0 victory against Hajduk Split in Croatia.

Despite enjoying some long spells of possession in the early stages, Hajduk failed to create good opportunities for their attacking players against a stubborn Italian defence.

Inter were ahead after only 18 minutes when Wesley Sneijder found space to give the visitors what looked like would be an important away goal.

However, Inter's position improved before half-time when Japan international Yuto Nagatomo beat Goran Blazevic in the Hajduk goal.

Hajduk appeared to have organised their team much better ahead of the second period with Inter finding it more difficult to slice open the hosts' defence.

There was a third goal for the Nerazzurri though, with substitute Philippe Coutinho scoring with 17 minutes left to put Inter in a commanding position heading into the second leg.