On a gripping night at the San Siro, Inter Milan withstood a late onslaught from Bayern Munich to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw, progressing to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals 4-3 on aggregate.
Goals from Lautaro Martínez and Benjamin Pavard ensured the Nerazzurri advanced despite Bayern’s relentless pursuit of a comeback, culminating in a nerve-jangling finale that showcased elite European football at its finest.
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Fierce Early Exchanges Between Inter and Bayern
Both clubs maintained continuity from their first-leg lineups, with Thomas Müller returning to Bayern’s starting XI and Federico Dimarco slotting back in for Inter after injury. Müller, influential from the start, tested Yann Sommer within six minutes, his low shot requiring swift handling after receiving Michael Olise’s clever pass. At the other end, Dimarco capped a flowing Inter move, only to be denied by Jonas Urbig’s sharp reflexes.
Bayern asserted themselves soon after, probing a defence that had been breached just once at home in the competition this season. Hakan Çalhanoğlu’s curling effort skimmed past the upright, while Yann Sommer was kept busy, catching a crisp volley from Joshua Kimmich and then reacting quickly to an audacious Leroy Sané overhead kick before the interval.
Kane’s Composure Reignites the Tie
Bayern emerged after the break with purpose and poise, Harry Kane providing a lifeline with an immaculate finish into the far corner. Picking his spot from the right side of the penalty area, the Englishman drew the German outfit level in the tie, his instinctive strike catching Inter’s usually solid back line by surprise.
Kane’s goal continued his incredible form in knockout stages, making it six consecutive Champions League knockout ties in which he has found the net.
Martínez and Pavard Deliver Devastating Response
Inter, unfazed by the shift in momentum, struck twice in quick succession to reclaim control. Lautaro Martínez, seizing on a scrappy clearance following a corner, rifled a fierce effort past Urbig to restore the advantage. “It was a moment to step up, and I took it,” the captain later reflected.
Just three minutes later, the hosts doubled their tally. Çalhanoğlu’s expertly delivered outswinging cross found Benjamin Pavard — on his 50th Champions League appearance — who rose majestically to thunder a header beyond the Bayern keeper. The Frenchman’s milestone goal was particularly poetic, coming against his former club.
Dier’s Header Sparks Tense Finale
Not ready to surrender, Bayern mounted a late resurgence. Substitute Serge Gnabry’s accurate free-kick was met by Eric Dier, who steered a looping header from an improbable angle into the far post, breathing life into the visitors’ comeback hopes.
As full-time loomed, Bayern peppered Inter’s box with crosses and attempts. Kane blasted over from close range, Müller’s driven effort flew inches wide, and Kingsley Coman narrowly missed with a curling attempt. Yet, despite the pressure, Inter’s defensive resilience held firm.
Historic Feats and Semi-Final Setup
The match marked a significant milestone for Müller, who joined Lionel Messi on 163 Champions League appearances — trailing only Iker Casillas and Cristiano Ronaldo. Pavard’s goal was his first in Europe since scoring for Bayern against Inter in 2022, while Martínez etched his name into club history, scoring for the fifth consecutive Champions League game — a first for any Inter player.
Simone Inzaghi’s men now remain unbeaten in 15 consecutive Champions League home matches (W12), a streak dating back to that 2-0 loss against Bayern in September 2022.
Barcelona Awaits as Inter Eye Another Final
With their progression sealed, Inter now prepare for a blockbuster semi-final clash against Barcelona — a rematch of the iconic 2009/10 tie, which saw the Italian giants eliminate the Catalan side en route to lifting the trophy. This time, with a talismanic forward in Martínez, they’ll believe history can repeat itself.
As the final whistle echoed around San Siro, it was clear that despite Bayern’s relentless fight, Inter had earned their passage through skill, grit, and timely execution. “Deservedly so, I would say, over the 180 minutes.”
FAQs
How did Inter Milan qualify for the Champions League semi-finals against Bayern Munich?
Inter progressed with a 4-3 aggregate win after a thrilling 2-2 draw in the second leg at San Siro.
Who scored for Inter in the Champions League quarter-final second leg vs Bayern?
Lautaro Martínez and Benjamin Pavard were the goal scorers for Inter in the 2-2 draw.
What record did Lautaro Martínez set in the Champions League match against Bayern?
Martínez became the first Inter player to score in five consecutive Champions League games.
What milestone did Benjamin Pavard reach in the second leg against Bayern?
Pavard scored his first Champions League goal for Inter on his 50th career appearance in the competition.
Who will Inter face in the Champions League semi-finals after beating Bayern?
Inter will face Barcelona in a repeat of their iconic 2009/10 Champions League semi-final clash.
