Inter Milan successfully navigated their way to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League after defeating Feyenoord 2:1 at the San Siro on March 12, 2025. This victory secured them the tie with a comprehensive 4:1 aggregate score over the two-legged affair.
The match started with Inter swiftly taking control when Marcus Thuram netted the opener just 8 minutes in, finishing off a well-placed ball from his teammate, Carlos Augusto. Yet, the Dutch side steered the game back on level terms before halftime when Jakub Moder converted from the penalty spot, equalizing the score at 1:1 at the 42-minute mark.
The second half saw Inter regain their lead quickly. Hakan Chalhanoglu, under pressure, rose to the occasion and converted another penalty at the 51st minute, bringing the score to 2:1. This was not the only penalty awarded; Feyenoord had also been granted the opportunity after being fouled inside the box.
While Feyenoord came close to leveling the score yet again when they thought they had scored through Tomas Belan at the 68th minute, the goal was disallowed after VAR intervened, ruling it out for offside. Despite dominating the shots with 14 attempts on goal compared to Inter’s 11, Feyenoord could not produce the desired result.
Inter had previously set themselves up well for this decisive match with their 2:0 victory over Feyenoord during the first leg, played on March 5, 2025, at the De Kuip stadium. With this result, the Italian giants were able to seize total control over the tie.
The team's qualification for the quarter-finals not only reflects their growing strength on the European stage but also serves as a reminder of their history as one of Italy's most successful clubs. They will now face Bayern Munich, which also advanced after dispatching Bayer Leverkusen during their match.
Inter displayed an impressive level of control throughout the match, with 56% possession and completing 552 accurate passes for a success rate of 90%. Their tactical execution proved invaluable, allowing them to build play and create scoring opportunities. Despite the pressure from Feyenoord, Inter's defensive line held firm under pressure and thwarted multiple threats.
Following this match, Feyenoord's campaign came to an end, marking their exit from the tournament. The overall outcome highlighted the disparity between the two sides, with Inter's aggregate performance clearly displaying their higher efficiency and finishing ability.
The upcoming clash against Bayern promises to be another thrilling encounter, as both teams aim for glory on the continental stage. Inter’s fans can now lift their spirits as they look forward to what lies ahead. The continuous progress and confidence displayed by the team provide promising prospects for their future endeavors.
Feyenoord fans, meanwhile, will no doubt take heart from their team’s fighting spirit throughout the matches, but will have to contemplate what needs to change for future success.
With the match wrapped up, the excitement for the upcoming quarter-finals begins to build, as both clubs gear up for what promises to be electrifying battles vying for Champions League glory.
Despite their exit, Feyenoord’s performance showcased resilience and moments of brilliance, particularly in their ability to respond after conceding early. They will want to channel this experience to build on their campaign next season and push for a stronger showing.
Meanwhile, Inter celebrates another successful chapter as they continue their pursuit of European glory, reminding the football world of their status and ambitions on such prestigious platforms.