Deck stacked against holders Inter Milan
Is it that unthinkable that Inter Milan could beat Bayern Munich 2-1 ([16.0]) at the Allianz Arena and qualify for the Champions League quarter-finals? This time last week, writing off the holders would have appeared a risky move, but the weekend's events definitely don't bode well for their chances.
ALL BETFAIR CUSTOMERS WILL RECEIVE A COMMISSION REFUND FOR BETS ON THIS MATCH. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Since the initial encounter at the San Siro, Leonardo's side had thumped Genoa 5-2 to herald the most successful start to a managerial tenure in Serie A history, whereas Bayern lost three in a row to end their bid for domestic silverware and prompt the decision to axe Louis van Gaal this summer.
The momentum has swiftly shifted since because Inter's own attempt to sustain their recent Serie A dominance suffered a major blow as they were held and almost lost in Brescia on Friday night, while Bayern destroyed Hamburg 6-0 a day later with Arjen Robben firing in a hat-trick.
Inter are once again Italy's last hope in Europe, as stunningly no team from the peninsula reached the last 16 of the Europa League and the two other Champions League round-of-16 participants, Roma and AC Milan, were eliminated from ties that they were favourites to progress from.
The Nerazzurri were always outsiders against the club they defeated in Madrid last May, even before losing 1-0 as hosts after a late Julio Cesar fumble allowed Mario Gomez to score, however they are now a massive [5.0] to go through despite one goal potentially being enough.
The reason for those odds is that Bayern have won 11 of their last 13 at home and seven in a row in front of their fans in the Champions League, and having shown against Hamburg that they won't just stroll through the final weeks of the van Gaal era, so [1.83] is a generous price on last year's runners-up.
Though the first leg was surprisingly low-scoring, goals are expected tonight with over 2.5 goals rated [1.81] because Inter need to score, and have only failed two twice in 15 Serie A and continental games under Leonardo, while Bayern aren't great the back. 2-1 Bayern appeals at [9.6].
Bayern Munich v Inter Milan
Kick-off: 7.45pm
Live on Sky Sports 4
Who are you backing in this rematch of last year's final? Tell us below...
Published: 15 Mar 2011
Leave a comment