In a remarkable display of resilience and determination, Inter Women made history by defeating Wolfsburg in a nail-biting encounter that saw them qualify for the UEFA Women’s Champions League for the first time. After facing a 2-0 deficit from the first leg in Germany, the Nerazzurre turned the tables in front of their home fans, ultimately winning 3-1 on the night and 8-5 on penalties.
The match, played at the Breda, was a testament to the heart and spirit of the Inter squad. Coach David Sassarini had emphasized the need for a different approach in the second leg, and his players delivered, showcasing their belief from the opening whistle. The atmosphere was electric as the team sought to overturn the aggregate score, and they started the match with high intensity, pushing Wolfsburg back into their own half.
Inter’s first significant opportunity came in the seventh minute when a clever backheel from Le Bihan set up Bartoli for a low cross that narrowly missed a finishing touch. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 39th minute when Polli broke free from her marker and found Bartoli, who calmly slotted the ball into the far corner, giving Inter a 1-0 lead and reigniting hopes of a comeback.
Wolfsburg, who had initially responded with intensity, struggled to maintain their momentum as Inter regained control. As the match progressed, Sassarini made strategic substitutions, bringing on fresh legs to bolster the attack. With just six minutes remaining in regulation time, Inter struck again. Magull delivered a precise low cross to Polli, who fired home to equalize the aggregate score at 2-2 and force extra time.
As the extra period unfolded, Inter continued to push for the decisive goal, but it was Wolfsburg who struck first in the 111th minute. Arasniewicz found the net after a well-delivered cross, putting the German side ahead 3-2 on aggregate and leaving Inter facing elimination. However, the Nerazzurre refused to back down. In a dramatic twist, Milinković scored in the dying moments of the match, equalizing the aggregate score once more and sending the match to penalties.
The penalty shootout was a tense affair, with both teams converting their first four attempts. However, the tide turned when Rúnarsdóttir made a crucial save against Alber’s attempt, putting Inter in a position to win. Ivana Andrés stepped up confidently for the final penalty, scoring to seal the victory for Inter and sending the players and fans into a frenzy of celebration.
This historic win not only marks a significant milestone for Inter Women but also highlights the growth of women’s football in Italy and across Europe. The team’s journey to the UEFA Women’s Champions League is a testament to their hard work and determination, and they will now have the opportunity to compete among Europe’s elite clubs. The players embraced each other at the final whistle, fully aware that they had etched their names into the club’s history with this unforgettable achievement.
Inter Women 3-1 Wolfsburg (8-5 on penalties) | Match Summary: Goals: 39' Bartoli (I), 84' Polli (I), 111' Arasniewicz (W), 120'+1 Milinković (I). Penalty sequence: Minge (W) goal, Magull (I) goal, Peddemors (W) goal, Bugeja (I) goal, Linder (W) goal, Schough (I) goal, Arasniewicz (W) goal, Milinković (I) goal, Alber (W) saved, Andrés (I) goal.
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