In a thrilling encounter on April 30, 2025, Barcelona and Inter Milan played to a dramatic 3-3 draw in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final at the Olympic Stadium in Barcelona. This match, filled with excitement and high stakes, saw both teams exchanging leads, setting the stage for an intense second leg in Milan on May 6.
The game kicked off with a bang as Marcus Thuram of Inter scored just 31 seconds into the match, sending the visiting fans into a frenzy. His deft finish, a backheel flick from a cross by Denzel Dumfries, put Inter ahead early, showcasing their intent to dominate the match.
Barcelona, however, was not to be outdone. Just 24 minutes later, Lamine Yamal, the 17-year-old prodigy, struck back for the Catalans. Yamal's goal was a result of a brilliant solo effort, as he maneuvered past defenders to place the ball into the far corner, leveling the score at 1-1.
But the drama didn’t stop there. Inter reclaimed the lead in the 21st minute when Dumfries himself found the back of the net, doubling the score to 2-1. The Dutchman’s powerful strike followed a well-executed corner, leaving the Barcelona defense scrambling.
Barcelona's response was swift and effective. Just before half-time, Ferran Torres equalized again in the 38th minute, finishing expertly after a setup from Raphinha. The teams went into the break tied at 2-2, with both sides having shown their attacking prowess.
The second half continued the back-and-forth action. Denzel Dumfries scored his second goal of the match in the 64th minute, giving Inter a 3-2 lead. The goal was a result of a well-placed header from a corner kick, demonstrating Inter's aerial strength and tactical execution.
Yet, Barcelona would not be denied. Just a minute later, in the 65th minute, an unfortunate own goal by Inter's goalkeeper Jan Sommer brought the score to 3-3. Raphinha's powerful shot from outside the box ricocheted off Sommer and into the net, ensuring a dramatic equalizer for the home side.
As the match progressed, both teams had opportunities to take the lead again, but neither could convert. Despite several close calls, the score remained tied, and the match ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Looking ahead, the return leg in Milan promises to be just as electrifying. With the aggregate score level, both teams will be vying for a place in the Champions League final, where they could face either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal, who are competing in the other semi-final.
Barcelona’s coach expressed pride in his team’s resilience, noting, “We showed great character to come back twice in the match. The young players are stepping up at crucial moments, and I believe we can carry this momentum into the second leg.”
Inter’s manager, on the other hand, lamented the missed chances but remained optimistic, stating, “We played well and created numerous opportunities. If we can replicate that performance at home, I’m confident we can advance.”
The stage is set for a high-stakes clash in Milan, where both teams will look to capitalize on their strengths and secure a spot in the Champions League final. Fans around the world will be eagerly watching as these two football giants battle it out once more.
