Douglas Maicon says Inter Milan have firmly established themselves as a European power after victory at CSKA Moscow.

Inter reached the Champions League semifinals 2-0 on aggregate after last night's 1-0 win in Moscow.

"It is a wonderful joy for us and an important step forward in this competition," said Maicon.

"Before everyone said that Inter did well in Serie A and badly in Europe. We have proved a point tonight and from now on it will be impossible to say that."

Wesley Sneijder's effort was enough for Inter.

"It was good to score so early on, even if we wasted some chances later in the game. It was a difficult arena to play in and we got through deservedly," added Maicon.

"I love the fact Inter are still competing in three competitions, it is very satisfying."