Simone Inzaghi isn’t taking anything for granted. Despite a stunning win over Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena, the Inter Milan coach believes there’s no alternative to victory in the return leg if they want to secure a spot in the Champions League semi-finals.
Inter celebrated a thrilling 2-1 away win, ending Bayern’s 22-match unbeaten run at home in the Champions League. But while the result sparked joy among the Nerazzurri, Inzaghi is keeping his feet firmly on the ground. Speaking cautiously about the German giants, the Italian coach said, “Still a lot of work to do.”
The win came in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday, with Lautaro Martínez opening the scoring in the 38th minute. Inter held onto the lead deep into the second half, but with just five minutes left on the clock, Bayern veteran Thomas Müller pulled one back to level the score.
Inter, however, didn’t let the setback linger. Just three minutes later, substitute midfielder Davide Frattesi found the back of the net, restoring the lead and securing a precious victory for the visitors.
The return leg will be played at the San Siro, where Inter will host Bayern in what promises to be a high-stakes clash. Although Inter now have a valuable edge, Inzaghi refuses to get carried away. He insists that his side must go into the second leg with the same intensity and hunger to win.
“We played with intensity, and that gave us joy. We know Bayern’s numbers, and we’ve secured an important win against them. But if we can’t do the same in the return leg at the San Siro in front of our fans, then today’s win doesn’t mean much,” said Inzaghi.
“We know only half the battle is won. The second part will be played at the San Siro. Bayern are a very strong team, but Inter fought with determination, courage, and aggression to match them.”
The decisive second leg between Inter and Bayern will take place on April 16. The winner will move on to face either Barcelona or Borussia Dortmund in the semi-finals.
