Key Takeaways:
- Bayern Munich eliminated from Champions League by Inter Milan.
- Defensive lapses during two corner kicks prove costly.
- Harry Kane scores, but Inter’s response seals Bayern’s fate.
- Goalkeeper Jonas Urbig impresses despite the loss.
Bayern’s Fight to Survive
After a narrow 2-1 loss in the first leg, Bayern needed a strong performance at the San Siro. The atmosphere was electric, the rain was pouring, and the stakes were sky-high. Could they overcome the Italian giants and book their place in the semi-finals?
Müller and Olise Spark Early Fire
From the kickoff, Bayern showed their intent. Thomas Müller, making his 163rd Champions League appearance (equalling Lionel Messi!), and Michael Olise were a constant threat. Urbig, Bayern’s young goalkeeper, was also called into action early, denying Inter’s Marcus Thuram with a brave save.
Inter’s Tactical Masterclass
While Bayern dominated possession, Inter remained dangerous on the counter. Their strategy was clear: absorb the pressure, frustrate Bayern, and strike with deadly precision. They defended deep, particularly focusing on Bayern’s midfield.
Kane’s Goal Ignites Hope
The second half started with Inter threatening, but then came the breakthrough. Leon Goretzka won the ball and fed it to Harry Kane, who coolly slotted it past Yann Sommer to give Bayern the lead. The away fans erupted – was this the turning point?
Three Minutes of Terror
Disaster struck in the 58th minute. A corner from Dimarco found Lautaro Martinez, who finished with ruthless efficiency. Bayern protested, claiming a handball, but the goal stood. Just three minutes later, another corner, another goal – this time, Benjamin Pavard headed home. Bayern’s Champions League dream was hanging by a thread.
Dier’s Defiant Header
Showing incredible resilience, Bayern refused to give up. Eric Dier’s header, seemingly intended as a cross, looped into the net, bringing the score to 2-2 and reigniting Bayern’s hopes. The final minutes were a frantic affair, with Bayern throwing everything forward.
So Close, Yet So Far
Despite their best efforts, Bayern couldn’t find the winning goal. Sommer denied Müller in the dying seconds, sealing Inter’s victory. The final whistle blew, and the Bayern players sank to their knees in despair. It was a heartbreaking end to their Champions League campaign.
Did you know? Bayern Munich has won the Champions League/European Cup six times, with their last victory in 2020 against Paris Saint-Germain. Source: UEFA.com
What Went Wrong?
The post-match analysis focused on Bayern’s defensive vulnerabilities, particularly at set-pieces. Coach Kompany will need to address these issues if Bayern are to challenge for major honors next season. Also, Inter Milan will face Hansi Flick’s FC Barcelona in the next round. Source: FCBarcelona.com