Bayern's Champions League Hopes Dented as Inter Claim Crucial Away Victory

Bayern Munich's Thomas Müller remains optimistic despite his team's disappointing 2-1 home defeat to Inter Milan in their Champions League quarterfinal first leg. The German giants dominated possession but were undone by Inter's clinical finishing and defensive resilience.

"We unfortunately missed a big chance in the first half with Harry, that would've given us a different feeling," Müller reflected after the match news. The normally lethal Harry Kane struck the woodwork when presented with a golden opportunity to give Bayern the lead, a moment that proved pivotal as the match progressed.

Bayern eventually broke through in the 85th minute when Müller himself found the net, seemingly salvaging a draw. However, their celebrations were short-lived as Inter responded just three minutes later, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to secure a precious away victory.

"We tried to come back, we managed to do that, then conceded a goal from a counter where we should've done better," the veteran attacker explained. Despite the setback, Müller maintained that the tie remains very much alive: "We had imagined a different outcome here today, but it's only half time. We know there's still a lot possible."

This defeat comes during a turbulent week for Bayern, who have faced both injury concerns and off-field distractions. The club has struggled to maintain their usual dominance in the Bundesliga this season, with Bayer Leverkusen threatening to end their decade-long stranglehold on the German title.

Inter's victory continues their impressive European campaign, with the Italian champions demonstrating the same defensive solidity and tactical discipline that has made them nearly unbeatable in Serie A. Their counter-attacking approach proved perfectly suited to neutralizing Bayern's possession-based game.

Bayern now face a challenging return leg at the Giuseppe Meazza, where they must overcome both a one-goal deficit and Inter's formidable home record to reach the semifinals.