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Inter Milan produced a statement performance in the Champions League quarterfinals on Tuesday night, claiming a surprise 2-1 away win over Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena. Goals from Lautaro Martínez and Davide Frattesi gave the Serie A leaders the advantage heading into next week’s second leg in Milan. The result leaves Bayern Munich, one of the tournament favorites, facing a difficult challenge to turn things around at the Giuseppe Meazza if they are to reach the semifinals, where Barcelona or Borussia Dortmund await.
Bayern start strong, but Inter strike first
Playing in front of a packed Allianz Arena — also the venue for this season’s Champions League final — Bayern Munich started on the front foot. The hosts created the first big chance of the match when Michael Olise dazzled with a solo run past three Inter players before setting up Harry Kane, whose powerful effort struck the post in the 26th minute. Despite Bayern’s early dominance, it was Inter who opened the scoring. In the 38th minute, Marcus Thuram squared the ball across the box to Lautaro Martínez, and the Argentine striker expertly curled the ball into the bottom corner with the outside of his foot. The goal gave Inter a crucial lead heading into the break.
Late drama seals win for Inter
In the second half, Martínez nearly doubled Inter’s lead, but his effort was stopped by Jonas Urbig, Bayern’s backup goalkeeper who filled in for the injured Manuel Neuer. Bayern looked to their veterans for inspiration, and it was substitute Thomas Müller who brought the Germans level in the 85th minute. Müller, who is set to leave Bayern at the end of the season, found himself in the right place at the right time, tapping in at the far post to make it 1-1. But Inter responded almost immediately. Just three minutes later, Carlos Augusto delivered a precise cross from the left, and Davide Frattesi, also a substitute, timed his run perfectly to finish past Urbig and restore Inter’s lead.
All to play for in Milan
The final whistle confirmed a massive away win for Inter, who now carry a slender advantage back to Italy. The second leg will be played at the iconic Giuseppe Meazza stadium in Milan, where Inter will look to finish the job and reach their first Champions League semifinal since 2010. For Bayern, it’s now or never. With the final in their own stadium, this is the year they want to reach it more than others. The Bundesliga leaders will need a much-improved performance next week if they are to avoid an early exit from the competition they last won in 2020.
