Inter Women marked their first-ever Champions League appearance with a 1-0 victory over BK Häcken at the Brianteo in Monza, sealing a result that had been years in the making.
Maltese forward Haley Bugeja scored the only goal in the 5th minute, cutting inside from the right and directing a low left-footed strike past goalkeeper Falk. The goal was the first scored in the 2026/27 UEFA Women's Champions League League Phase, a distinction that will forever be linked to Inter's European bow.
"It's a historic night for the club," head coach David Sassarini said after the match. "The players showed great maturity and tactical discipline. To win your first Champions League match is something very special."
The match was played at the Stadio Brianteo, the home of Inter's men's team, which hosted the women's side for their European debut. The venue provided a fitting stage for a night that saw Inter control proceedings for long stretches.
Häcken, managed by Elena Sadiku, responded through captain Anvegård early on, but her effort was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Rúnarsdóttir. The Swedish side's best chance came in the 28th minute when Selerud fired over from close range after a cross from Bodin found her unmarked at the far post.
Inter went close to doubling their lead on multiple occasions in the second half. Magull's free kick was tipped over the bar, and both Bartoli and Magull saw headers crash against the crossbar. The woodwork denied Inter twice as they pressed for a second goal.
The visitors were reduced to 10 women in the 89th minute when goalkeeper Falk was shown a red card by referee Martinčić after a VAR review determined she had brought down Raphino outside the area. Inter saw out the remaining stoppage time with a numerical advantage to secure the three points.
"The performance was complete from start to finish," Sassarini added. "We created chances, we were solid defensively, and we managed the game well. The squad deserves this moment."
The result puts Inter in a strong position as they begin their League Phase campaign. Their remaining fixtures include matches against Austria Vienna, Lyon, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Arsenal — a demanding schedule that will test the Italian side against some of Europe's elite.
For Bugeja, the goal represented another milestone in a career that has seen her become one of the most prominent Maltese athletes on the international stage. The 22-year-old's early strike ensured her name will be remembered in Inter's European history.
Inter's debut victory is a significant step for Italian women's football, which has been growing steadily in recent years. The club's qualification for the Champions League represented progress for the domestic game, and the opening-night win demonstrated that Inter can compete at the highest level.
Sources
https://www.inter.it/en/news/inter-women-hacken-women-champions-league-2026-27 https://www.goal.com/en/indivisa/lists/inter-women-bugeja-decides-the-women-s-champions-league-opener-against-hacken/blt04bc154fc6c19d82
