A Promising Start Turns Sour for Bayern
In a dramatic first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal, Bayern Munich suffered a disappointing 2-1 home defeat to Inter Milan. Despite showing early promise and dominating the opening half-hour, the Bavarians were left stunned by an 88th-minute winner from Davide Frattesi that gave Inter the edge heading into the return leg in Milan.
Bayern Munich began the match with energy and intent, testing Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer on multiple occasions. Harry Kane struck the post in the 26th minute, narrowly missing a crucial opener. However, it was Inter who broke the deadlock in the 38th minute, courtesy of a clinical finish from Lautaro Martínez. Bayern’s defensive lapse gave the Argentine striker just enough space to convert a well-orchestrated sequence.
At halftime, Bayern trailed 1-0, despite having more attacking opportunities. Head coach Vincent Kompany opted to start Raphaël Guerreiro over veteran Thomas Müller—a decision that would be questioned as the match progressed. Bayern’s attacking play, though fluid at times, lacked the cutting edge to trouble Inter’s well-organized defense.
Substitutions Spark Life—But Only Briefly
The second half saw more urgency from the home side, and Kompany made several key substitutions around the 74th minute, including the introduction of Müller, Serge Gnabry, and Sacha Boey. The changes injected fresh energy into Bayern’s attack, and the breakthrough came in the 85th minute when Müller capitalized on a defensive lapse to equalize with a well-timed finish at the back post.
However, Bayern’s joy was short-lived. Just three minutes later, Inter punished a moment of complacency as Davide Frattesi redirected a cross into the net, restoring the visitors’ lead and silencing the Munich crowd. Despite Bayern’s late push, Inter held on for a hard-fought away win.
Inter’s tactical discipline was a hallmark of their performance. After taking the initial lead, they sat back, absorbed pressure, and remained compact. Their efficient use of chances and strong defensive shape left Bayern frustrated, with limited space to operate in the final third. Meanwhile, Harry Kane endured a forgettable night, lacking movement and sharpness—a performance that raised concerns about his fitness and form.
All to Play for in the Second Leg
Though the result is a setback, Bayern Munich is far from eliminated. The 2-1 scoreline means a one-goal margin separates the two sides, leaving the tie open heading into the decisive second leg in Milan on April 16. Given Inter’s conservative playing style, Bayern may find opportunities to turn the tables with a moment of brilliance.
Historically, Bayern Munich holds a slight edge over Inter in head-to-head matchups, with five wins to Inter’s three. However, their last Champions League meeting in a final went Inter’s way in 2010. Both teams currently lead their respective domestic leagues, further intensifying what promises to be an electrifying rematch.
Vincent Kompany will need to reassess his tactical approach and squad selection, particularly in light of underwhelming performances from key players and ongoing injury issues. The pressure is now on the Bundesliga leaders to respond on enemy territory and keep their European dreams alive.
