In a dramatic UEFA Champions League semifinal clash, FC Barcelona and Inter Milan faced off in the second leg on May 6, 2025, at the iconic San Siro stadium, following a thrilling 3-3 draw in the first leg. The stakes were high as both teams aimed for a place in the final, and the atmosphere was electric with anticipation.
Barcelona, under the guidance of coach Hansi Flick, made notable adjustments to their lineup, primarily due to injuries. Star striker Robert Lewandowski, who had been sidelined since April 19 with a hamstring injury, was declared fit to return but was set to start on the bench. "We’ve spoken yesterday and everything is going the right way, and Lewandowski is good. Much better than we expected, and he’s ready for the bench. So when we need him, maybe he can come in," Flick stated in a press conference prior to the match.
Despite Lewandowski's absence from the starting eleven, Barcelona's attack remained formidable. Ferran Torres, who has been in excellent form, continued to lead the line, having scored 19 goals this season. The rest of the lineup included Wojciech Szczesny in goal, supported by Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, and Gerard Martin in defense. The midfield featured Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, while the attacking trio consisted of Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Raphinha.
On the other side, Inter Milan, managed by Simone Inzaghi, fielded a strong team, starting their captain Lautaro Martinez, who had recovered from a hamstring injury just in time for the match. Martinez had not played since the first leg but made an immediate impact by scoring the opening goal and winning a penalty in the first half, showcasing his importance to the team.
Inter’s lineup consisted of Yann Sommer in goal, with a three-man defense featuring Yann Bisseck, Francesco Acerbi, and Alessandro Bastoni. The midfield was bolstered by Denzel Dumfries, Nicolo Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, while the attack was spearheaded by Marcus Thuram alongside Martinez.
The match kicked off with both teams looking to assert their dominance early on. Inter took the lead when Martinez found the back of the net, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. The goal was a critical moment, putting Barcelona on the back foot and forcing them to respond quickly.
Barcelona's response was swift, as they sought to regain control of the match. With Lewandowski available on the bench, the pressure was on Torres to deliver. Flick’s decision to keep Lewandowski as a potential substitute was strategic, aiming to preserve the Polish striker for a crucial moment later in the game.
As the first half progressed, Barcelona struggled to break down Inter's defense, which held firm under pressure. Flick's tactical adjustments were evident, as he switched formations and made substitutions in search of an equalizer. The absence of full-backs Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde, both sidelined with injuries, was felt as Barcelona struggled to contain Inter's counterattacks.
Inzaghi's side capitalized on this weakness, with Dumfries proving to be a constant threat down the right flank. The Inter players were relentless, and their confidence surged with each passing minute.
Barcelona's midfielders, including Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, worked tirelessly to create chances, but the final product was lacking. The tension in the stadium was palpable as fans from both sides cheered and shouted, urging their teams to find the back of the net.
As the match approached the half-time mark, Barcelona's need for a goal became urgent. Flick decided to make his first substitution, bringing on Lewandowski to replace Torres. The crowd erupted as the star striker entered the field, and the atmosphere shifted dramatically. Would this be the moment that changed the tide for Barcelona?
With Lewandowski on the pitch, the dynamics of the game changed. His presence alone seemed to lift the morale of the Barcelona players. The Polish international, who has scored 40 goals this season, immediately began to influence the game, drawing defenders and creating space for his teammates.
Barcelona's tactical shift paid off as they began to create more opportunities. The breakthrough finally came when Lewandowski, showing his class, set up a brilliant play that led to an equalizer. The stadium erupted as the Barcelona fans celebrated their team's resilience.
As the second half unfolded, the match continued to ebb and flow, with both teams creating chances. Inter Milan's defense was tested repeatedly, but they remained resolute. The game showcased the intensity and skill of both sides, with every pass and tackle echoing the high stakes of the Champions League.
Inzaghi's men fought back, looking to regain the lead. Martinez and Thuram combined well, threatening Barcelona's goal, but Szczesny was in fine form, making crucial saves to keep his team in the game. The clock ticked down, and the tension mounted as both teams pushed for a decisive goal.
As the final whistle approached, Barcelona's determination was evident. Flick's tactical adjustments and the introduction of Lewandowski had revitalized the team. Fans held their breath as Barcelona pressed forward, seeking that elusive winning goal.
Ultimately, the match ended in another thrilling draw, leaving the tie finely poised. Both teams will now head into the second leg with everything to play for, knowing that the aggregate score remains level. The excitement and anticipation for the next encounter are palpable.
With the Champions League final within reach, both FC Barcelona and Inter Milan must regroup and prepare for what promises to be another unforgettable clash. Who will emerge victorious in this epic battle? Only time will tell as the journey continues.
