Inter Shocks Bayern in Champions League Quarterfinal First Leg
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Synopsis
In a gripping Champions League quarterfinal first leg, Bayern Munich succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against Inter Milan at home. Despite a strong start and an equalizer late in the match, Bayern could not secure a favorable result.
Key Takeaways
- Bayern Munich's first home defeat in 22 Champions League matches.
- Inter Milan capitalized on Bayern's missed opportunities.
- Bayern's equalizer came late in the match.
- Bayern now faces a challenging return leg at San Siro.
- Coach Vincent Kompany emphasizes the tie is still open.
Berlin, April 9 (NationPress) Bayern Munich faced its first home defeat in 22 Champions League matches, losing 2-1 to Inter Milan in the opening leg of their quarterfinal clash at the Allianz Arena.
The home team began with vigor, as Michael Olise and Harry Kane tested Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer early on, and Raphael Guerreiro squandered the clearest chance of the half, being thwarted by the Swiss shot-stopper.
The typically reliable Kane missed a golden opportunity from close range on the half-hour mark, a moment that appeared to shift the momentum. Inter capitalized on Bayern's missed chances just before halftime, as Lautaro Martinez brilliantly finished from the edge of the area following a backheel assist from Marcus Thuram, according to reports from Xinhua.
Bayern advanced in the second half but struggled to penetrate the competition's best defense. Guerreiro and Josip Stanisic both came close, while Leon Goretzka made a vital block to prevent Inter from doubling their lead at the other end. Vincent Kompany turned to his substitutes with 20 minutes to go, introducing Thomas Muller, Serge Gnabry, and Sacha Boey in search of a breakthrough.
The tactical switch nearly bore fruit. Kane shot wide and was later denied by Sommer, but it was Muller who ultimately equalized in the 85th minute, converting Konrad Laimer's cross from close range. However, their celebration was short-lived. Just three minutes later, Inter countered, with Carlos Augusto assisting Davide Frattesi, who slotted the winner into an unguarded net.
Bayern now travels to the San Siro needing a comeback to keep their Champions League aspirations alive.
"We fought to get back into the game and succeeded, but we certainly could've managed the final moments better," said Muller. "It's 2-1 to Milan after the first leg, not the outcome we aimed for, but the tie is far from over.
"We had opportunities to score in the first half, played with bravery, and created danger. It’s unfortunate we conceded that late goal, but we have a chance next week to rectify things," stated Bayern coach Kompany.
