Lautaro Martinez and Nicolo Barella produced impressive performances to help Inter Milan edge out Bayern Munich 2-1 in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.
Bayern looked dangerous in the initial stages, with Harry Kane coming close to opening the account after having his shot denied by the crossbar.
However, It was Inter who drew first blood following a swift move.
Martinez fired a blistering strike into the back of the net with the outside of his boot following a brilliant back-heel from his attacking partner Marcus Thuram.
Thomas Muller equalised for Bayern in the 85th minute, nearly shattering Inter’s dreams.
But it only lasted a few minutes as super sub Davide Frattesi scored a stunning volley to secure the win for the Italian giants.
Martinez continued his stellar run in the Champions League this season, netting seven goals in 10 appearances.
The Argentine striker also concluded the game with 94% passing accuracy, one big chance created, three recoveries, two interceptions and two successful dribbles.
He also played a crucial role in the counter-attack that led to Frattesi’s winning goal.
Similarly, Barella dominated proceedings in the middle of the park.
The 28-year-old played a vital pass to Carlos Augusto in the build-up to the winner.
His extraordinary vision and work rate were pivotal in Inter getting the better of the Bavarians.
He created 1 big chance, completed 2 dribbles, 5 passes into the final third, 4 accurate long balls and won three duels.
Barella has been at the heart of Inter’s dominance in all competitions this season, bagging three goals and eight assists in 41 appearances.
Martinez and Barella were influential in Inter’s fairy tale run in the 22/23 Champions League campaign, where they reached the finals before losing to Manchester City. Both are now looking to replicate a similar magic this term.
Inter will host Bayern in the second leg on April 16.
Source: FT
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