FC Barcelona is set for a thrilling showdown against Inter Milan in the Champions League semifinal second leg at the iconic San Siro on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Following an electrifying first leg that ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw, both teams are poised to battle for a coveted spot in the final. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as Barcelona aims to reclaim their place among Europe’s elite after a decade-long absence from the Champions League final.
In a boost for the Catalan giants, star striker Robert Lewandowski has returned to training and is expected to be available for selection. His presence could be pivotal in a match that promises to be intense and closely contested. The first leg showcased Barcelona's resilience as they fought back from two goals down, only to see Inter snatch the lead again before Raphinha's late equalizer salvaged a draw.
Coach Hansi Flick, who is in his inaugural season with Barcelona, has a chance to achieve a historic treble, and he is preparing his squad meticulously for this crucial encounter. Flick opted to rest nearly all of his starting eleven during Saturday's narrow 2-1 victory against Real Valladolid, with only Pedri expected to retain his spot in the lineup. The coach's strategy seems sound, considering the demanding schedule and the need for fresh legs.
However, injuries have plagued Barcelona's squad. Jules Koundé, a mainstay in the defense, will miss the match due to a hamstring injury sustained in the first leg. Eric García, who had been on the verge of a loan move to Girona, will step in to fill the gap left by Koundé. This unexpected opportunity could serve as a turning point for García, who has shown remarkable maturity and consistency when called upon.
"Injuries cannot be changed, but there are players who can cover the different positions. Koundé and Balde are injured, but whether it's Eric, Ronald, Héctor, or Gerard, they can play in their positions and help us win," Flick stated in the pre-match press conference.
García's performance will be critical as he faces Inter's formidable attacking duo of Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram. The 24-year-old defender has proven his worth in previous matches, including a solid showing in the first leg where he played the second half without conceding any goals.
Meanwhile, the spotlight will also be on 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, who dazzled in the first leg with a stunning solo goal. His ability to create chances and unsettle the opposition's defense makes him a key player for Barcelona as they seek to penetrate Inter's backline. Yamal's electrifying pace and skill will be essential if Barcelona hopes to secure a victory.
As for Inter Milan, they will look to capitalize on their home advantage. The Italian side is expected to welcome back key players Benjamin Pavard and Lautaro Martínez, both of whom missed the first leg due to injuries. Their return adds depth and experience to Inter's lineup, making the challenge even tougher for Barcelona.
The first leg at Montjuïc was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Inter initially taking control of the match. They scored two quick goals through a backheel flick from Thuram and an overhead kick from Denzel Dumfries, showcasing their attacking prowess. However, Barcelona's resilience shone through as they clawed back to level the game twice, with Raphinha's long-range effort deflecting in off Inter's goalkeeper Yann Sommer to equalize.
Tonight's clash promises to be a tactical battle, with both coaches needing to adjust their strategies on the fly. Flick's rotation strategy has left fans curious about the final lineup, but it’s clear that he has faith in his squad's depth. Marc-André ter Stegen has returned to the squad after a long injury layoff, although Wojciech Szczesny is expected to start in goal for this crucial encounter.
As the teams prepare to face off in Milan, the atmosphere is electric. Barcelona dreams of returning to the Champions League final, and a victory tonight would bring them one step closer to that goal. The tension is palpable, with both teams knowing that this match could define their seasons.
With the aggregate score tied at 3-3, every moment counts. Fans across the globe will be glued to their screens, eagerly anticipating what could be a historic night for either club. Will Barcelona emerge victorious and secure their place in the final, or will Inter Milan capitalize on their home advantage and advance instead? The answer awaits as the kickoff approaches.
