- Bayern Munich eliminated by Inter Milan in the Champions League quarter-finals.
- Key moments: Defensive lapses and Inter’s clinical finishing.
- Harry Kane scored for Bayern, but it wasn’t enough.
- Inter Milan advances to face Barcelona in the semi-finals.
Bayern’s Fight Falls Short
The atmosphere was electric at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium as Bayern Munich faced Inter Milan in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash. After a 2-1 defeat in the first leg, Bayern needed a strong performance to keep their European dreams alive.
From the kickoff, Bayern displayed their intent, pressing high and creating early chances. The dynamic duo of Thomas Müller and Michael Olise proved to be a constant threat, linking up effectively to test Inter’s defense.
First Half: Intense Battle, No Breakthrough
The first half was a tense affair, with both teams battling fiercely for control. Bayern dominated possession, but Inter’s organized defense and quick counter-attacks kept the German side on their toes. Bayern had nine goal attempts, while Inter managed seven.
Kane’s Goal Sparks Hope
The second half began with Inter showing more aggression, but it was Bayern who struck first. In the 52nd minute, Leon Goretzka won the ball and passed to Harry Kane, who created space against Dimarco and scored a low shot into the far corner, making it 1-0 for Bayern. The goal ignited hope among Bayern fans and put Inter under immense pressure.
Inter’s Quickfire Response Turns the Tide
However, Bayern’s lead was short-lived. Just six minutes later, Inter’s Lautaro Martinez capitalized on a corner kick, slotting the ball home to equalize. The goal sparked controversy as Bayern players protested a possible handball during Martinez’s control, but the goal stood after a VAR check.
Three minutes later, Inter struck again from another corner. Pavard rose above the defense to head the ball into the net, turning the game on its head and leaving Bayern stunned. The two goals in quick succession exposed Bayern’s vulnerability in defending set-pieces, a weakness that had plagued them in previous games as well.
Dier’s Lucky Goal Sets Up Thrilling Finale
With their Champions League hopes fading, Bayern responded with renewed urgency. Coach Vincent Kompany made substitutions, bringing on Raphael Guerreiro and Serge Gnabry to inject fresh energy into the attack. In the 76th minute, Bayern’s efforts paid off when Eric Dier’s attempted header from the end-line curled unexpectedly into the net, leveling the score at 2-2.
Late Push Not Enough for Bayern
The late goal set up a frantic final 15 minutes. Bayern piled on the pressure, desperately searching for the decisive goal that would send them to the semi-finals. However, Inter’s defense held firm, thwarting Bayern’s attacks and frustrating their attempts to find a breakthrough. Inter’s goalkeeper, Yann Sommer, made crucial saves to deny Bayern, and the final whistle blew with the score at 2-2, sending Inter Milan through to the semi-finals on aggregate.
What’s Next for Bayern?
The defeat marks the end of Thomas Müller’s Champions League career with Bayern, adding an emotional layer to the disappointment. Despite the loss, Bayern can take pride in their fighting spirit and the quality of their performance. However, they will need to address their defensive vulnerabilities and improve their consistency if they are to challenge for major honors in the future.
As for Inter Milan, they advance to face Barcelona in the semi-finals, setting up a mouth-watering clash between two of Europe’s footballing giants.