Bayern Munich is set to host Inter Milan on April 8, 2025, in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, promising an exciting clash between two of Europe’s football giants. The match will kick off at 22:00 Moscow time at the Allianz Arena in Munich, where Bayern looks to extend its remarkable unbeaten home streak in the Champions League, currently standing at 22 matches (17 wins, 5 draws).
Bayern Munich, traditionally a favorite in any tournament, has shown its prowess this season, having eliminated Bayer Leverkusen in the previous round with an aggregate score of 5-0. Their recent form in the Bundesliga has also been impressive, with a 3-1 victory over Augsburg in their latest outing on April 4, 2025. Goals from Jamal Musiala, Harry Kane, and an own goal secured the win for Bayern, showcasing their attacking capabilities.
Despite their strong performance, the Bavarians face significant challenges due to injuries. Key players such as goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, defenders Alphonso Davies and Dayot Upamecano, and midfielder Jamal Musiala are sidelined. Musiala's absence is particularly felt as he has been central to Bayern's attacking play. However, Harry Kane, who has netted 10 goals in the current Champions League campaign, is expected to lead the attack and could prove pivotal in this high-stakes match.
On the other hand, Inter Milan arrives in Munich with a solid reputation for defense, having conceded only two goals in their last ten Champions League matches. Under the guidance of coach Simone Inzaghi, the Nerazzurri have displayed tactical discipline and resilience, which they will need to counter Bayern's aggressive style of play. Inter progressed to the quarter-finals by defeating Feyenoord, and their recent form in Serie A includes a 2-2 draw against Parma, where they squandered a 2-0 lead.
Inzaghi's squad will also be missing some key players, including defender Alessandro Bastoni and forward Taremi, which may impact their performance against a formidable Bayern side. However, the return of striker Lautaro Martinez from injury adds depth to their attacking options, and he will partner with Marcus Thuram up front.
The historical context of this match adds to the intrigue. Bayern and Inter have faced each other several times in European competitions, with Bayern winning both encounters in the group stage of the 2022/23 Champions League, both times with a score of 2-0. This history will undoubtedly motivate both teams as they seek to assert dominance in this knockout tie.
Experts predict a closely contested match, with many expecting a low-scoring affair given both teams' defensive strengths and the high stakes of the quarter-finals. Football commentator Konstantin Genich suggests betting on a total under 2.5 goals, indicating that breaking through Inter's defense will be challenging for Bayern.
As the match approaches, the focus will be on how Bayern adapts to the absence of key players and whether they can maintain their attacking momentum against a team known for its defensive solidity. The tactical battle between Kompany and Inzaghi will be crucial in determining the outcome of this first leg.
In the buildup to the match, Bayern's head coach Vincent Kompany emphasized the need for his team to believe in their abilities, stating, "How to score against such Inter? We have to believe. Bayern also usually doesn't concede a lot. Everything can decide individual moments. For example, a standard position. We have to be ready for such moments." Meanwhile, Inzaghi acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying, "It's good to be here. We have a difficult match ahead with a very strong team in a beautiful stadium. We know what we had to do to get to this stage, so we'll give it our all. Bayern are an experienced Champions League participant who always makes it to the later stages. I think Bayern and Real are the main contenders for the title."
With both teams in search of a strong start to their quarter-final tie, fans can expect an electric atmosphere at the Allianz Arena. The match is sure to be a spectacle, showcasing the best of European football as Bayern seeks to leverage its home advantage against an Inter side determined to upset the odds.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, all eyes will be on the Allianz Arena, where the stage is set for a thrilling encounter between Bayern Munich and Inter Milan. Will Bayern continue their dominance at home, or will Inter find a way to secure a vital away goal? The answer awaits as these two storied clubs clash in the Champions League quarter-finals.
