Inter Milan shocked Bayern Munich with a dramatic late goal to claim a 2-1 win in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals. The match, played at Bayern’s Allianz Arena, was filled with tension, missed chances, and last-minute drama. Inter now carries a slim advantage into the second leg at the San Siro on April 16.
Inter Takes Control with Stunning Opener
Although Bayern dominated early play, Inter was the first to strike. Bayern’s Harry Kane nearly gave the home side the lead with a curling shot that struck the post. Despite controlling possession and territory, Bayern was caught off guard by Inter’s swift counterattack.
In the 38th minute, Inter’s Marcus Thuram showed his class by flicking the ball into the path of Lautaro Martinez. The Argentine star wasted no time, firing into the top corner with the outside of his foot. The strike marked his seventh Champions League goal this season and gave Inter a surprise lead.
Bayern’s Response and Muller’s Equaliser
Bayern pressed hard for an equaliser in the second half. England striker Kane and winger Michael Olise were at the heart of most of their chances. Olise had two notable efforts—one deflected just wide, and another saved by Inter’s goalkeeper. Kane missed multiple opportunities, including a header and a low shot that went just wide.
Veteran forward Thomas Muller, recently announcing his departure after a legendary 25-year run with Bayern, gave fans hope. In the 85th minute, Konrad Laimer sent in a low cross which Muller tapped in from close range. It was Muller’s 57th European goal and looked to have rescued a draw.
Frattesi Delivers Late Knockout Blow
Just when Bayern thought they had done enough, Inter struck again. In stoppage time, Carlos Augusto delivered a perfect cross into the box. Substitute Davide Frattesi made a brilliant run and volleyed the ball past Bayern’s goalkeeper, sealing a precious away win.
The goal silenced the home crowd and ended Bayern’s incredible 22-game unbeaten streak at home in European competitions. Their last home loss in the Champions League had come in 2021.
What This Means for the Second Leg
Inter’s win puts them in a strong position going into the return fixture in Italy. The Serie A leaders will hope to build on their form and reach the semi-finals for the second year in a row. In 2023, they reached the final but lost to Manchester City.
The winner of this tie will face either Barcelona or Borussia Dortmund in the semi-finals. The final is set for May 31 and will take place at Bayern’s Allianz Arena, giving the German side extra motivation to overturn the deficit.
Kompany Remains Positive
Despite the loss, Bayern manager Vincent Kompany tried to keep spirits high. “Inter celebrated hard, but for us, this is just halftime. We are down 2-1, but we still believe we can win in Milan,” he said.
Kompany added that playing away could give Bayern fresh energy and new chances. “We are not out. We have the players and the mentality to turn this around.”
Kane and Olise Struggle to Convert Chances
Bayern’s attack created many chances, but finishing was the issue. Michael Olise looked sharp and came close to scoring twice. Kane also had his moments, hitting the post and missing two headed efforts. Raphael Guerreiro blasted a shot over the bar in one of Bayern’s many frustrating moments.
Meanwhile, Inter took their chances well. Thuram and Martinez combined brilliantly for the first goal, and Frattesi’s finish under pressure showed real composure.
A Night to Remember
This clash between two European giants had everything—goals, drama, and rising tension. Inter walked away with the advantage, but the second leg promises even more action. With the tie finely balanced, all eyes now turn to Milan.