Bayern Munich and Inter Milan renew their historic rivalry tonight in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final at the Allianz Arena. The tie pits the leaders of the Bundesliga against the leaders of Serie A in a fascinating clash of styles – Bayern’s high-scoring attack against Inter’s formidable defence.
This is the third knockout stage meeting between the sides, most famously clashing in the 2010 final, won by Inter. Bayern won both group stage encounters last season 2-0.
Team News
Bayern Munich approach the tie amidst a significant injury crisis, particularly in defence. Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, defenders Dayot Upamecano, Hiroki Ito, and Alphonso Davies (ACL tear) are all sidelined. This forces manager Vincent Kompany to field a makeshift backline against Inter’s dangerous attack. Adding to their woes, star attacker Jamal Musiala suffered a hamstring injury last week and could be out for up to eight weeks. Veteran Thomas Müller is expected to deputize in the attacking midfield role. Müller scored against Inter in the 2010-11 Round of 16.
Inter Milan also have injury concerns, with Denzel Dumfries, Mehdi Taremi, Valentin Carboni, and Piotr Zielinski unavailable for the trip to Munich. Simone Inzaghi’s side will rely on their renowned defensive strength, having conceded just two goals in 10 Champions League matches this season, to contain Bayern’s attack, led by Golden Boot contender Harry Kane. Inter dropped points last weekend, drawing 2-2 at Parma after leading 2-0, but remain in contention for a potential treble (Serie A, Coppa Italia, Champions League), echoing their 2009-10 success.
Predicted Lineups
- Bayern Munich Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):Urbig; Laimer, Dier, Kim, Guerreiro; Kimmich, Goretzka; Olise, Müller, Sané; Kane.
- Inter Milan Predicted XI (3-5-2):Sommer; Pavard, Acerbi, Bastoni; Darmian, Barella, Çalhanoğlu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Thuram, Martínez.
Current Form & Prediction
Both teams lead their respective domestic leagues but have shown recent inconsistencies. Bayern recently ended a two-game winless league run by beating St Pauli, while Inter squandered a lead against Parma.
Bayern, as the home side, will be expected to dominate possession and attack Inter’s disciplined low block. Inter will look to exploit Bayern’s defensive vulnerabilities through quick transitions, led by strikers Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martínez. Bayern’s attacking quality should trouble Inter, but their depleted defence faces a stern test. A close first leg is anticipated, potentially leaving the tie finely balanced for the return at the San Siro next week.
Score Prediction: Bayern Munich 1–1 Inter Milan
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