Inter Milan delivered a statement performance in the UEFA Champions League, defeating Bayern Munich 2-1 at the Allianz Arena and ending the German side’s 22-match unbeaten home run in European competition. According to UEFA Technical Observer Gareth Southgate, Inter’s win was a product of both precise attacking execution and disciplined defensive structure.
The victory in this quarter-final first leg underscores Inter’s status as serious contenders for the title. Led by Simone Inzaghi, the Serie A leaders showcased their trademark 3-5-2 formation with cohesion, patience, and clinical finishing—qualities that overwhelmed a Bayern team struggling to contain the visitors’ fluid combinations and transitions.
Combination Play Powers Inter’s Attack
Central to Inter’s success was the forward pairing of Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram. Both strikers were involved in the build-up to the opening goal, combining near the halfway line before Martínez shifted the ball wide. When Carlos Augusto’s cross entered the box, the forwards reconnected, culminating in a well-placed finish.
“I wanted originally to shoot with my left foot but I had so many players in front of me, so I opted to change it and go with the other boot,” Martínez told Sky Sport Italia.
Inter’s second goal, scored by substitute Davide Frattesi late in the match, began with goalkeeper Yann Sommer and once again saw Martínez operating in central spaces. Southgate emphasized how both goals started with passes into the forwards around the halfway line—a recurring theme in Inzaghi’s system.
“It’s not so often defenders face a front two these days,” said Southgate. “But Inzaghi’s Inter thrives on the chemistry between its forwards. The set from Thuram to Lautaro for the first goal is clearly the result of countless hours on the training ground.”
Inzaghi echoed this sentiment post-match, praising his team’s “technique” and “personality” and referring to the second goal as an example of principles “we have had for four years now.”
Bastoni Shines in Defensive Leadership
While the attack captured attention, Southgate also highlighted Inter’s composure in defense—particularly the contributions of centre-back Alessandro Bastoni, who was named Player of the Match. Bastoni’s timely blocks, clearances, and aerial duels were critical in neutralizing Bayern’s late pressure, especially a last-minute effort from Thomas Müller.
“Bastoni embodies Inter’s willingness to sacrifice defensively,” noted Southgate. “He showed a strong commitment to getting his body in the way of shots and made crucial interventions when it mattered most.”
Beyond his defensive work, Bastoni also contributed to Inter’s ball progression. Southgate noted his composure in possession and ability to step out from the back line with confidence—hallmarks of a defender comfortable rotating with midfielders and driving play forward.
A graphic shared by UEFA’s technical team highlighted Bastoni’s dual role in both breaking up Bayern’s attacks and initiating Inter’s transitions, reinforcing his status as a cornerstone of Inzaghi’s tactical framework.
Inter Takes Control Ahead of Return Leg
The 2-1 victory places Inter in a strong position ahead of the second leg in Milan. With two away goals and a performance that blended tactical discipline with attacking intent, the Italian side holds the psychological edge.
For Bayern, the loss ends an era of home dominance in the Champions League. Coach Vincent Kompany acknowledged a lapse in concentration that led to Inter’s winning goal, admitting, “They use it really well, and every pass afterwards is perfectly executed.”
As the tie shifts to San Siro, Inter will look to capitalize on their momentum and secure a semifinal berth. Their balanced performance in Munich—defined by efficient combination play, defensive resilience, and clear strategic identity—may well serve as a blueprint for navigating the business end of the tournament.