Inter Milan are 90 minutes away from reaching the Champions League semi-finals for the second time in three seasons, and they are feeling confident after a dramatic 2-1 victory against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena last week. This victory not only marked a significant milestone for the Italian side but also ended Bayern's impressive 22-match unbeaten home run in the competition.
Having faced Manchester City in the 2023 Champions League final, where they narrowly lost, Inter Milan has rebounded remarkably. Under the guidance of manager Simone Inzaghi, the team is on track to secure back-to-back Serie A titles for the first time since 2010, showcasing their resilience and determination.
As they prepare for the second leg of their quarter-final tie at the San Siro on April 16, 2025, Inter holds a one-goal advantage. The match is set to kick off at 8 PM local time, with fans eagerly anticipating the outcome. With their exceptional home record in Europe, where they remain unbeaten in their last 14 Champions League matches, the atmosphere at the San Siro is expected to be electric.
One of the key aspects of Inter's success this season has been their ability to perform under pressure. Their average starting XI age of 29 years and 342 days reflects a wealth of experience that has proven invaluable in crucial moments. This veteran squad has been compared to Jose Mourinho's treble-winning side from 2009-10, which remains the oldest team to win the Champions League.
Despite being labeled as the underdogs in the first leg, Inter defied expectations. Bayern Munich, led by the likes of Harry Kane and Leroy Sané, were anticipated to outpace their older opponents. However, Inter's tactical discipline shone through as they managed to cover only 2.6 kilometers less than Bayern during the match. "They [Inter] have grown around the same kind of players who have got the experience and the maturity to understand that the Champions League is about moments," said journalist Guillem Balague on the Euro Leagues podcast.
Inter's first goal came from Lautaro Martinez, who capitalized on a swift counter-attack that transitioned the ball from goalkeeper Yann Sommer to the back of the net in just 12 touches. This was followed by a late winner from Davide Frattesi, who scored after only seven touches, sealing the victory for Inter. "Inter are very smart," noted European football journalist Kristof Terreur, highlighting their ability to exploit Bayern's vulnerabilities.
Defensively, Inter has been formidable, conceding only three goals in their 11 Champions League matches this season, averaging an astonishing 0.27 goals per game. This stat places them among the best in the competition's history. The backline, featuring seasoned players like 36-year-old Sommer and 33-year-old Stefan de Vrij, has been instrumental in their success. "It's about match-ups and man marking v zonal," explained Italian football journalist David Ferrini, emphasizing the tactical acumen of Inzaghi's side.
However, not everything is perfect for Inter. They have shown signs of vulnerability in recent Serie A matches, allowing more chances than earlier in the season. Critics have pointed out that they have only kept one clean sheet in their last six league games at the San Siro, raising concerns ahead of the pivotal clash against Bayern. "Inter have struggled at home this season against big rivals. Bayern pose a significant threat," Ferrini remarked.
As the second leg approaches, the stakes are high. Inter fans are filled with hope yet tempered with caution. "I am not sure. I think we may have to be happy with the Scudetto this year," said Inter supporter Naomi Accardi, reflecting the mixed sentiments among the fanbase. Nevertheless, the prospect of advancing to the semi-finals is tantalizing, and the players are keen to make history.
With the match being broadcast live on TNT Sports 2, fans around the world will be tuning in to witness what promises to be an exhilarating encounter. The atmosphere at the San Siro will undoubtedly be charged, as Inter aims to finish what they started in Munich and secure their place among Europe’s elite once again.
As the clock ticks down to kick-off, all eyes will be on the pitch, where Inter will look to harness their experience and home advantage to overcome Bayern Munich and continue their Champions League journey. Will the golden oldies of Inter Milan go all the way this season? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: they are not afraid of anyone.
