Inter Milan emerged victorious in dramatic fashion at the Allianz Arena, defeating Bayern Munich 2-1 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final.
The Italians secured a crucial advantage ahead of the second leg, striking late to spoil Bayern’s 22-match unbeaten home run in the competition—a streak dating back to 2021.
The Bavarians dominated early proceedings, creating chances that could have altered the course of the match.
England captain Harry Kane came closest, rattling the post with a curling effort in the opening half-hour.
Yet, it was Inter Milan who struck first, converting their maiden shot on target. Marcus Thuram’s sublime flick set Lautaro Martinez up for a spectacular finish into the roof of the net, putting the visitors ahead in the 38th minute.
Despite Bayern’s relentless pursuit of an equalizer, it was veteran forward Thomas Muller who eventually broke through in the 85th minute.
Muller, who recently announced his departure from the club after a 25-year association, capitalized on Konrad Laimer’s precise low cross to level the score, igniting hope among the home fans.
However, Inter Milan had other plans. Just three minutes after Muller’s heroics, substitute Davide Frattesi ensured his side’s triumph by converting Carlos Augusto’s pinpoint cross.
The late strike dampened Bayern’s celebrations and placed Inter in pole position to advance to the semi-finals.
Bayern manager Vincent Kompany remains confident heading into the second leg at the San Siro. “It’s only half-time. We feel belief and will do everything we can to overturn this result,” he stated. Despite their six-point lead in the Bundesliga, the Bavarians must now summon their fighting spirit to keep their Champions League dream alive.
Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez, who netted his seventh goal of the competition, emerged as the standout performer of the night, anchoring his team’s display with precision and poise.
The Italians, three-time European champions, will now look to complete the job in Milan on April 16.
The Allianz Arena may host the final on May 31, but Bayern Munich’s prospects of playing at home hang precariously in the balance after Inter’s late twist.
