Barcelona and Inter Milan engaged in a thrilling Champions League semifinal first leg at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on April 30, 2025, with the match ending in a dramatic 3-3 draw. The contest was marked by a flurry of goals and intense action, making it a memorable night for both teams and their supporters.
Marcus Thuram opened the scoring for Inter just 30 seconds into the match, netting the fastest goal in Champions League semifinal history. The French forward showcased his skill with an audacious back-heel flick after a well-placed low cross from Denzel Dumfries, who later doubled Inter's lead with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 21st minute.
However, Barcelona, managed by Hansi Flick, responded swiftly. Lamine Yamal, on his 100th appearance for the club, pulled one back for the Catalans just three minutes after Dumfries's second goal. Yamal's stunning solo effort not only made him the youngest player to score in a Champions League semifinal at 17 years and 291 days, but it also reignited hope for the home side.
Ferran Torres equalized for Barcelona in the 38th minute, finishing from close range after Raphinha's header across goal. The first half ended with both teams level at 2-2, setting the stage for an exciting second half.
Inter regained the lead in the 63rd minute when Dumfries scored again, this time with a header from a corner taken by Hakan Calhanoglu. Yet, just two minutes later, Barcelona equalized once more, thanks to an unfortunate own goal by Inter's goalkeeper Yann Sommer, who deflected Raphinha's powerful shot into his own net.
With the match ending in a 3-3 draw, both teams will head into the second leg in Milan with everything still to play for. The intensity of the match was reflected in the performances of key players, with Dumfries earning the Man of the Match award for his two goals and an assist.
After the match, Inter Milan center-back Alessandro Bastoni praised Yamal's performance, stating, “Lamine is an incredible player, we have to acknowledge that. He’s one of the best, if not the best winger at the moment; when it’s time to say ‘well done,’ you have to say it.” Bastoni also reflected on his team's performance, noting, “It was a great match, with chances on both sides.”
Barcelona's Yamal, who had a remarkable game, nearly scored again, hitting the post twice and creating numerous chances for his teammates. His performance drew comparisons to Barcelona legends, and he has quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in football.
Raphinha also had a stellar night, contributing significantly to Barcelona's attacking play. His assist for Torres' goal marked his 20th goal involvement in the Champions League this season, a record only surpassed by Cristiano Ronaldo in 2013-14. Raphinha's ability to create opportunities and score goals has made him a vital part of Barcelona's campaign.
As the two teams prepare for the return leg on May 7 in Milan, the stakes are higher than ever. The winner will face either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal in the final on May 31 in Munich. Both sides will be looking to capitalize on their attacking strengths while shoring up their defenses to avoid any costly mistakes.
This match not only showcased the talent of young players like Yamal but also highlighted the resilience of both teams, who fought back from difficult positions. The excitement of the Champions League continues, and fans can expect an equally thrilling encounter in the second leg.
With the aggregate score tied, the upcoming match promises to be a high-stakes battle as Barcelona and Inter Milan vie for a spot in the Champions League final. Will Barcelona's youthful exuberance prevail, or will Inter's experience tip the scales in their favor? One thing is certain: the drama is far from over.
