The Champions League enters its most decisive phase as the first leg of the semifinals between Barcelona and Inter Milan is set to kick off on April 30, 2025. This clash of European giants promises to deliver strong emotions and intense competition. Barcelona comes into the match buoyed by their recent victory over Borussia Dortmund, while Inter has faced challenges but remains a formidable defensive unit.
Barcelona, under the guidance of coach Hansi Flick, is expected to field a strong lineup. In goal, Wojciech Szczęsny will be the undisputed choice, providing leadership and experience. The defensive line will consist of Jules Koundé, Ronald Araujo, Cubarsí, and Gerard Martín, who will aim for balance and solidity in the absence of Alejandro Balde. In midfield, Frenkie de Jong will act as the anchor, supported by either Fermín or Gavi, alongside Pedri as the creative force. Up front, the absence of Robert Lewandowski looms large, prompting questions about the team's offensive capabilities.
Lewandowski will miss the match due to muscle discomfort, a significant blow for Barcelona as he is their top scorer and a key leader on the pitch. His absence has been described as a "cold shower" for the locker room, particularly for his attacking partner Raphinha, who expressed his disappointment over not having his best ally in the offensive zone. Raphinha's understanding with Lewandowski was crucial to their attacking system, and now he must take on more responsibility. Flick is counting on Ferran Torres to step up in Lewandowski's absence, especially after Torres scored against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final.
Inter Milan, managed by Simone Inzaghi, will also have their own challenges. The coach is yet to decide if Marcus Thuram will start against Barcelona after recovering from a minor adductor issue. Thuram missed the last three matches, which affected Inter's attacking prowess as they failed to score in those games. Inzaghi's indecision stems from Thuram's lack of match fitness and a shortage of reliable backup options, as Mehdi Taremi has struggled to impress, and Marko Arnautovic is not fully fit. Furthermore, Joaquin Correa is not included in the UEFA squad, complicating Inzaghi's choices.
Despite recent struggles, Inter's defense is one of the most solid in Europe, making this matchup even more intriguing. They have kept eight clean sheets in the Champions League this season, showcasing their ability to stifle opposing attacks. Inzaghi's reputation as a knockout specialist adds another layer of complexity to this tie, having previously led Inter to the Champions League final in 2023.
The historical context of the matchup is significant as well. Barcelona and Inter have faced each other in European competitions multiple times, with Barcelona winning eight of their sixteen encounters, including a memorable knockout stage tie in 2009-10 where Inter eliminated the defending champions. However, Barcelona is unbeaten in their last six home games against Inter in the Champions League, which adds to their confidence heading into the match.
Barcelona is currently riding a wave of success, having won both the Supercopa de España and the Copa del Rey this season. Their recent form has been impressive, with only one loss in their last 28 matches across all competitions, scoring 83 goals from 67 expected goals (xG) since the start of 2025. Raphinha has emerged as a key player, boasting 51 goal involvements this season, making him one of the top performers in Europe.
As the teams prepare for this high-stakes encounter, the excitement is palpable among Barcelona fans, who still hold aspirations of Champions League glory despite the setback of Lewandowski's injury. The matchup promises to be intense and tactical, with every detail potentially making the difference in this closely contested tie.
With both teams eager to secure an advantage in the first leg, the stage is set for a thrilling clash at Montjuic. Can Barcelona overcome the absence of their star striker and maintain their momentum against a resolute Inter side? Or will Inzaghi's men pull off a surprise in Catalonia? The answers will unfold on the pitch as these two storied clubs vie for a place in the Champions League final.
