Photo Credit: Getty Images
Inter Milan grabbed a late winner to secure a vital 2-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie, putting themselves in a strong position to reach the semi-finals. Despite Bayern dominating the opening stages, including a close effort from Harry Kane that curled against the post, it was the Serie A leaders who struck first with their only shot on target in the first half.
In the 38th minute, Inter executed a brilliant team move that saw Marcus Thuram display impressive skill, leaping to flick the ball into the path of Lautaro Martinez. The Argentine striker finished with flair, using the outside of his boot to fire the ball into the roof of the net, giving the visitors the lead against the run of play.
Bayern pushed for an equaliser and thought they had salvaged the match when veteran forward Thomas Muller scored in the 85th minute. The 35-year-old, who recently announced his departure from the club at the end of the season, slotted in from close range after Konrad Laimer's low cross.
However, Inter had one final twist to deliver. Just two minutes after Bayern's equaliser, the Italian side launched a swift counterattack, and Carlos Augusto's precise cross was met by substitute Davide Frattesi, who slotted home to restore Inter's lead and silence the Allianz Arena.
The loss marked the end of Bayern's 22-match unbeaten home streak in the Champions League, a run stretching back to 2021. The second leg is set for Wednesday, 16 April at San Siro, with the winner of the tie to face either Barcelona or Borussia Dortmund in the semi-finals. The final will be hosted at Bayern's Allianz Arena on 31 May.
Despite the setback, Bayern manager Vincent Kompany remained optimistic. Reflecting on Inter's celebrations, he noted that it was only "half-time" in the tie and insisted his side is still very much in contention. Kompany emphasized the team's motivation and belief in their ability to get a result in Milan, stating they will give everything to turn the tie around.
Bayern's starting XI featured England internationals Harry Kane and Eric Dier, but the team was left ruing missed chances. Michael Olise had several promising efforts, and Kane, who had multiple chances, including one against the post, couldn't find the breakthrough goal that might have changed the course of the game.
Inter took advantage, and after a brief Bayern resurgence through Muller, they responded with determination, reclaiming the lead through Frattesi's late strike. The Italians, runners-up in last season's final, now head back to Milan with momentum and a narrow advantage as they chase a return to the last four.
