Inter Milan secured a crucial 2-1 win against Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final, claiming a dramatic victory on German soil. The match, played at Bayern’s Allianz Arena, saw the hosts dominate the early stages but ultimately fall short as Inter capitalized on a late counter-attack.
Bayern Dominate Early Play, Kane Hits the Post
Bayern Munich came out strong, controlling possession and creating several dangerous chances in the opening 30 minutes. Harry Kane, who has been in excellent form for Bayern, came closest to opening the scoring. The England striker unleashed a powerful shot, but his effort cannoned off the right-hand post, denying the home side a lead.
Despite Bayern’s early pressure, Inter Milan took a shock lead with their first shot on target in the 38th minute. The Italians executed a brilliant team move, culminating in Marcus Thuram’s flicked pass to Lautaro Martinez. The Argentine striker used the outside of his boot to volley the ball into the top corner, giving Inter a 1-0 advantage.
Müller Equalizes Late, But Inter Strike Again
Bayern’s persistence paid off late in the match, as veteran forward Thomas Müller equalized in the 85th minute. Müller, who announced his departure from Bayern at the end of the season, finished a low cross from Konrad Laimer, striking from close range to draw his team level.
However, Inter responded quickly, retaking the lead just two minutes later. A rapid counter-attack saw Carlos Augusto deliver a sharp cross into the Bayern penalty area, where substitute Davide Frattesi was perfectly positioned to slot the ball home. Frattesi’s clinical finish restored Inter’s advantage, giving them a 2-1 lead to take back to Milan for the second leg.
Bayern’s Home Unbeaten Run Comes to an End
Bayern Munich’s defeat ended a remarkable 22-match unbeaten streak at home in the Champions League, a run dating back to 2021. The loss also brought an end to the club’s hopes of extending their home dominance in Europe, as they now face a challenging task in the second leg at San Siro on April 16.
Despite the setback, Bayern manager Vincent Kompany remained optimistic. “I saw a lot of celebrations on the other side,” Kompany said after the match. “But for us, this is just half-time. It’s 2-1, and we feel motivated.”
The manager emphasized that his team was still confident of a comeback, saying, “This result presents a challenge, but also an opportunity. We believe we can win in Milan, and we’ll give everything.”
Bayern’s Missed Chances Costly as Inter Capitalize
Bayern Munich’s failure to convert numerous chances ultimately cost them. Despite fielding a team with a few injury concerns, including the presence of Harry Kane and Eric Dier, Bayern had several opportunities to take control of the match. Michael Olise, in particular, caused problems for the Inter defense, with a deflected shot rolling narrowly wide and a 20-yard strike testing the goalkeeper.
Kane, who had a quiet game by his standards, also missed several chances. He headed one attempt just wide, while another shot went off-target, and his shot that struck the post in the first half was arguably the best opportunity of the game for Bayern.
Inter’s resilience was evident as they took advantage of Bayern’s missed chances. After Lautaro Martinez’s opening goal, Bayern continued to press, but Raphael Guerreiro fired over the bar, and Kane sent another shot wide. Müller’s late equalizer gave Bayern hope, but Inter’s swift response snatched away any momentum Bayern had built.
Inter Milan Look to Make Semi-Finals After Disappointing Final Loss
For Inter Milan, the win was a statement of intent after their heartbreak in last year’s final. The Italian side displayed strength and composure, and with this crucial away victory, they are now one step closer to reaching the Champions League semi-finals. The second leg at San Siro promises to be a thrilling encounter as Bayern Munich look to overturn the deficit.
The winner of this quarter-final tie will face either Barcelona or Borussia Dortmund in the semi-finals. The final is scheduled to be held at Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena on May 31.
Bayern Munich, still top of the Bundesliga with a six-point lead, will need a remarkable performance in Milan to keep their European dreams alive. As the tie remains finely balanced, both teams will go into the second leg with everything to play for.