Inter Milan secured a spot in the Champions League semi-finals, holding off Bayern Munich 2-2 in the quarter-final return leg, despite a spirited display from the German side. Goals from Lautaro Martínez and Benjamin Pavard helped Inter overcome a Harry Kane equalizer, sealing a 4-3 aggregate victory.
A Nail-Biting Finish
The match was a closely contested affair, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. Bayern pushed hard for the goal that would have forced extra time, but Inter’s defense held firm. Martínez was instrumental in Inter’s victory, scoring a crucial goal and providing a threat to the Bayern defense throughout the match. “For his important goal, clever movement, his understanding with strike partner Thuram and others, as well as his hard work for the team,” said the UEFA Technical Observer Group, naming Martínez as the PlayStation Player of the Match.
Post-Match Reaction
Inter coach Simone Inzaghi praised his team’s performance, saying, “It was a beautiful evening in front of our fans against a very strong team. We had to play two great games, giving everything we had. The lads were splendid; it’s a victory to share with the entire Inter world.” Bayern coach Vincent Kompany acknowledged Inter’s quality, saying, “We had some regrets in the first game and even more in the second. A lot felt right today. There were two moments in which we should have done better, but we have to also recognise Inter’s quality.”
Key Moments
The match was marked by several key moments, including Kane’s precise finish to level the tie and Pavard’s header to give Inter a crucial advantage. Inter’s goalkeeper Yann Sommer made several crucial saves, and the team’s defense held firm against Bayern’s attacks. “We played a good game against a strong opponent,” Sommer said. “In the second half, we defended really well as a team. I know Bayern well; they put you under this strong pressure, and we were too low. But we defended as a team; that’s how victories come.”
What’s Next?
Inter will face Barcelona in the semi-finals, a repeat of the 2009/10 semi-final. The Nerazzurri will be looking to make a deep run in the competition, and their recent form suggests they have the quality to do so.