In a dramatic encounter at the San Siro, Bayern Munich's hopes of advancing to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals were dashed as they drew 2-2 with Inter Milan on April 16, 2025. The result meant Bayern exited the tournament with a 3-4 aggregate score after losing the first leg 1-2 at home.
With the clock ticking down, Bayern needed a two-goal victory to secure their place in the next round, a feat they could not achieve despite a valiant effort. The match was marked by intense moments, with both teams showcasing their skills in front of a passionate crowd.
Harry Kane, who had faced criticism for his performance in the first leg, finally found the back of the net in the 52nd minute, leveling the aggregate score at 2-2. The English forward capitalized on a pass from Leon Goretzka, firing a right-footed shot that left Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer with no chance. This goal ignited hopes among Bayern fans that they might still turn the tie in their favor.
However, the joy was short-lived. Just moments later, Lautaro Martinez responded for Inter Milan, scoring in the 58th minute after a defensive lapse from Joshua Kimmich allowed him to shoot from close range. The home side regained the lead with a header from Benjamin Pavard in the 61st minute, leaving Bayern needing to score again to force extra time.
Bayern Munich's coach, Thomas Tuchel, made crucial substitutions in the second half, bringing on Raphael Guerreiro and Serge Gnabry for Kim Min-jae and Leroy Sane in an attempt to bolster the attack. Despite the changes, Bayern struggled to find a way through Inter's resolute defense.
As the match approached its final moments, Bayern mounted a desperate assault on the Inter goal. Their persistence paid off when Eric Dier scored a crucial equalizer with a header from a corner kick in the 75th minute, sending the traveling supporters into a frenzy. With the aggregate score now at 3-4, Bayern needed just one more goal to extend the match into extra time.
Despite their best efforts, Bayern could not find the decisive goal in the remaining minutes. The match ended with the aggregate score favoring Inter, who celebrated their advancement to the semi-finals for the first time since the 2009-10 season, marking their fourth overall appearance at this stage.
For Bayern Munich, this defeat marks a significant disappointment. It is their first failure to reach the semi-finals in five years, having reached the last four in the previous season only to lose to eventual champions Real Madrid. The loss also signifies the end of a seven-year quest for another Champions League title, with the last victory dating back to 2020.
Kim Min-jae, who started as a center-back alongside Eric Dier, was substituted in the 65th minute after struggling to make an impact. His recent performances have raised concerns, as he was also substituted early in the previous league match against Borussia Dortmund after contributing to an early goal conceded. Local media outlet TZ rated Kim Min-jae's performance a disappointing 5 out of 10, citing his lack of freshness and difficulties in aerial duels.
The match showcased the tactical battle between Tuchel and Inter's Vincent Kompany, with both coaches making strategic adjustments throughout the game. Bayern controlled 63% of possession and managed 11 shots, but they struggled to convert their chances into goals against a disciplined Inter defense.
Looking ahead, Bayern Munich will need to regroup and focus on their domestic campaign, as they now turn their attention to the Bundesliga and the DFB-Pokal. The team will be looking to bounce back from this setback and regain their footing in the league.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan will prepare for their semi-final clash against Barcelona, set to take place on April 29, 2025. This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for a place in the final.
As the Champions League progresses, the excitement continues to build, with Arsenal also advancing after defeating Real Madrid 2-1 in their second leg. Arsenal's aggregate score against the Spanish giants was a resounding 5-1, showcasing their dominance in the knockout stage.
The semi-finals will feature some of the best teams in Europe, with Barcelona facing Inter Milan and Arsenal taking on Paris Saint-Germain. Fans are eagerly anticipating these matchups as the race for the coveted Champions League trophy intensifies.
