BREAKING NEWS: Bayern Munich Trail Inter Milan 2–1 After First Leg of UEFA Champions League Quarter-Final
MUNICH, Germany — April 15, 2025
In a dramatic night at the Allianz Arena, Bayern Munich suffered a narrow 2–1 defeat to Inter Milan in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash. The Italian side delivered a composed and clinical performance, scoring a late winner to leave the German giants with everything to do in the second leg at San Siro.
The match began with intensity and high stakes, as expected in a Champions League knockout round. Bayern, backed by a roaring home crowd, started aggressively, pressing high and controlling possession. Their efforts paid off early, with Leroy Sané breaking the deadlock in the 23rd minute after a slick one-two with Harry Kane. Sané’s left-footed strike curled past Inter keeper Yann Sommer to give Bayern a 1–0 lead.
However, Inter Milan responded swiftly. Just ten minutes later, Marcus Thuram equalized for the Nerazzurri, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Matthijs de Ligt. A quick transition caught Bayern’s backline out of position, and Thuram slotted the ball calmly past substitute goalkeeper Sven Ulreich—who was in for the injured Manuel Neuer.
The second half remained tightly contested, with both teams creating chances. Inter’s midfield, led by Nicolò Barella and Hakan Çalhanoğlu, began to dominate possession, disrupting Bayern’s rhythm. Jamal Musiala and Joshua Kimmich worked hard to regain control, but their efforts were stifled by Inter’s disciplined defensive structure.
As the match seemed to be heading for a draw, disaster struck for Bayern. In the 87th minute, Inter substitute Denzel Dumfries delivered a pinpoint cross that was met by Lautaro Martínez, who nodded in the winner with a powerful header. The away goal not only gave Inter a crucial advantage but also left the home fans stunned into silence.
Bayern coach Thomas Tuchel expressed disappointment in the post-match press conference. “We started well, we had the momentum, but we lost control in key moments,” he said. “We conceded goals that were avoidable, especially in the final minutes. This tie is not over, though. We’ve been in tougher situations.”
One of the key concerns heading into the second leg is the absence of Manuel Neuer, who picked up a knock in training and is expected to miss the return fixture. With Sven Ulreich in goal, Bayern’s defense looked less assured. Tuchel will be hoping for a rapid recovery from the veteran shot-stopper, or else risk facing Inter’s dangerous forwards without his most experienced player between the sticks.
Bayern now face an uphill battle in Milan, needing at least a two-goal victory to progress without penalties. Despite the setback, there is still confidence in the Bayern camp. With stars like Kane, Musiala, and Sané in form, the Bundesliga leaders have the attacking firepower to overturn the deficit.
The second leg is set for April 23 at the San Siro, where Bayern will attempt one of their famous European comebacks. The eyes of Europe will be watching—this tie is far from finished.