In a thrilling encounter at the Allianz Arena, Inter Milan edged Bayern Munich 2-1 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal on April 8, 2025. The match saw a dramatic turn of events, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess and tactical acumen.
Bayern Munich came into the match with high hopes, having been unbeaten in their last 22 home games in Europe. Their lineup featured Urbig (gk), Stanisic, Dier, Kim, Laimer, Goretzka, Kimmich, Guerreiro, Olise, Kane, and Sane. On the other side, Inter Milan, led by coach Simone Inzaghi, fielded Sommer (gk), Pavard, Acerbi, Bastoni, Darmian, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mikhitaryan, Augusto, Martinez, and Thuram.
The match kicked off at 12:30 AM IST, and both teams started strong. Bayern's Harry Kane had a notable chance early on, forcing a save from Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer in the 15th minute. However, it was Inter who struck first, taking the lead in the 38th minute. Lautaro Martinez scored a stunning goal, finishing brilliantly after a clever back-heel assist from Marcus Thuram. The goal sent the Inter fans into a frenzy, as they celebrated their team's first-half dominance.
At halftime, Inter led 1-0, holding a slight edge in possession with 51% compared to Bayern's 49%. Despite Bayern taking more shots, they struggled to find the back of the net, with only four of their seven attempts on target.
The second half saw Bayern Munich come out with renewed energy, pushing for an equalizer. They came close multiple times, but Inter's defense, led by a resolute Sommer, held firm. Bayern finally found their breakthrough in the 85th minute when veteran Thomas Muller, who had come off the bench, tapped in a cross from Konrad Laimer to level the score at 1-1. The Allianz Arena erupted in cheers as Bayern seemed to have salvaged a draw.
However, the drama was far from over. Just three minutes later, Inter Milan responded with a counter-attack that stunned the home crowd. Carlos Augusto delivered a low cross into the box, which Davide Frattesi bundled home, regaining the lead for Inter at 2-1. The quick succession of goals highlighted the intensity of the match and the high stakes involved.
As the final whistle blew, Inter Milan celebrated a crucial away victory, leaving Bayern with a daunting task ahead of the second leg at the San Siro. The result marked Bayern's first home defeat in the Champions League since 2021, raising questions about their ability to progress in the tournament.
In a post-match interview, Bayern's coach reflected on the match, stating, "We had our chances, but we couldn't convert them. This is football; we need to learn from our mistakes and come back stronger in the second leg." Meanwhile, Inter's coach praised his team's resilience, saying, "We showed great character to bounce back after Bayern equalized. This win gives us a good advantage, but we know the job isn't done yet. We must remain focused for the return leg."
The next leg of this quarterfinal clash will take place on April 16, 2025, and with Inter holding a 2-1 lead, the pressure is on Bayern Munich to turn the tie around on their home turf. Fans from both sides eagerly anticipate what promises to be another exciting chapter in this UEFA Champions League saga.
As the teams prepare for the decisive second leg, the stakes couldn't be higher for both clubs. Bayern Munich will need to dig deep and harness their home advantage, while Inter Milan will aim to maintain their momentum and secure a spot in the semifinals. The stage is set for an unforgettable showdown in Milan.
