In a thrilling first-leg encounter on April 10, 2025, at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in Milan, Inter Milan secured a vital 2-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. The Italian side displayed tactical discipline and attacking efficiency to overcome a Bayern team known for its high pressing and offensive firepower.
From the outset, the match promised excitement. Bayern started on the front foot, applying their trademark pressure and forcing Inter to defend deep in the opening minutes. However, the Nerazzurri showed resilience, gradually growing into the match and finding gaps through quick transitions and counterattacks.
The deadlock was broken in the 21st minute when Inter’s Marcus Thuram pounced on a deflected pass, outpaced Bayern’s defense, and calmly slotted the ball past Manuel Neuer. The goal ignited the home crowd and shifted momentum in favor of the Italian hosts.
Bayern responded strongly, dominating possession and pushing forward with Leroy Sané and Jamal Musiala creating chances on the flanks. Their persistence paid off in the 38th minute when Harry Kane rose above the defense to head in a pinpoint cross from Joshua Kimmich, leveling the score 1-1.
After halftime, Inter came out more aggressive and reorganized. Simone Inzaghi’s tactical adjustments tightened the midfield and allowed more freedom to wing-backs Denzel Dumfries and Federico Dimarco. The winning goal came in the 67th minute, when Nicolò Barella launched a curling shot from outside the box that left Neuer rooted to the spot. It was a stunning strike that reflected Inter’s growing confidence.
Bayern attempted to rally in the final 20 minutes, bringing on Thomas Müller and Serge Gnabry to bolster the attack. Despite a flurry of late corners and long-range efforts, Inter’s defense held firm, with goalkeeper Yann Sommer making key saves to preserve the lead.
Statistically, Bayern edged possession with 61% but were less efficient in the final third. Inter managed 12 shots, with five on target, compared to Bayern’s 15 attempts and only three on target. The match showcased Inter’s maturity and ability to absorb pressure while striking decisively.
The victory gives Inter a narrow but crucial advantage heading into the second leg at the Allianz Arena in Munich. For Bayern, the challenge will be to overturn the deficit while managing the defensive vulnerabilities exposed in Milan.
Post-match, Inzaghi praised his players for their tactical discipline and belief, noting that the job is only half done. Thomas Tuchel, Bayern’s coach, admitted his team was not clinical enough and would need to improve to advance.
As the second leg approaches, both teams remain very much in contention, but Inter’s edge puts them in the driver’s seat for a semifinal berth in this season’s Champions League.
