Inter’s Gritty Draw Against Bayern: A Tale of Triumph and Lessons
When the final whistle blew at the San Siro, the scoreboard read 2-2, and the home crowd erupted in celebration. Internazionale had done it. They had advanced to the UEFA Champions League semifinals, edging out Bayern Munich with a 4-3 aggregate victory. But as the euphoria settled, a more nuanced picture emerged. Inter had shown remarkable grit and determination, but the path to victory was fraught with challenges that manager Simone Inzaghi will need to address.
Let’s start with the good news. Inter’s resilience was on full display as they held off a relentless Bayern side. The team showed the kind of tenacity that champions are made of, refusing to buckle under pressure. But here’s the flip side: they had to show that grit because they found themselves in a precarious position, clinging to a narrow aggregate lead. This duality is something Inzaghi will undoubtedly ponder as he reviews the game tape.
When Benjamin Pavard scored to give Inter a 2-1 lead just after the hour mark, the task seemed straightforward. They were two goals up on aggregate, playing at home against a Bayern side missing key players like Jamal Musiala and Alphonso Davies. The strategy should have been to maintain possession, absorb pressure, and perhaps score a third to seal the deal. Instead, the game took a different turn.
From the moment Pavard scored, Bayern took control. The shot count was eight to two in their favor, and the xG (expected goals) was 0.58 to 0.10, also in Bayern’s favor. The weather was less than ideal, with cold, windy, and rainy conditions, but it was the same for both teams. Inter’s decision to sit back and defend allowed Bayern to dictate the game, a risky strategy that nearly backfired.
The warning signs were there when Eric Dier equalized with 15 minutes to go. Instead of regrouping, Inter retreated further, allowing Bayern to pile on the pressure. Manager Vincent Kompany threw caution to the wind, sending on more attacking players, and Inter showed them too much respect.
Inter’s transformation from a confident, tactically astute side to one holding on for dear life was stark. This shouldn’t happen to a team of Inter’s caliber, especially when facing a Bayern side in transition, plagued by injuries, and led by a manager with something to prove.
- Inter’s defensive solidity is noteworthy, having conceded just six goals in this Champions League season.
- They have trailed for just over 10 minutes throughout the competition, a remarkable feat.
- Despite a lower wage bill, Inter remains one of the best sides in Europe.
Yet, the game against Bayern highlighted areas for improvement. Inter’s decision to sit back and defend was not in line with their usual style. A bit more self-belief and a proactive approach could serve them well in the upcoming semifinal against Barcelona. Attacking Barcelona’s high defensive line with conviction could be a more effective strategy than erecting a barricade in front of Yann Sommer.
Inter’s journey to the semifinals is a testament to their quality and coaching. They have managed to trim the wage bill while staying competitive, a feat not many clubs can boast. But as they prepare to face Barcelona, they must learn from their encounter with Bayern. Holding out against the likes of Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski will require more than just grit. It will require a blend of tactical acumen, confidence, and a willingness to seize the moment.
Originally Written by: Gabriele Marcotti
