As the UEFA Champions League semi-finals heat up, FC Barcelona is set to host Inter Milan at the Estadio Olímpico in Barcelona on April 30, 2025. Kickoff is scheduled for 21:00 local time, and fans can catch the action live on Canal+ Extra 1, with pre-match coverage beginning at 20:50. The match is crucial for both teams as they vie for a spot in the prestigious tournament's final.
Barcelona enters the match as a formidable opponent, riding high from their recent success in the Copa del Rey, where they triumphed over Real Madrid in a thrilling 3-2 finish after extra time. This victory has solidified their confidence, and they are eager to maintain their momentum in the Champions League. However, they will be without their star striker Robert Lewandowski, who is sidelined due to injury. Despite his absence, Barcelona boasts a strong lineup, with Wojciech Szczęsny expected to deliver a solid performance in goal.
In recent weeks, Barcelona has shown impressive form, winning four of their last five matches. Their only loss this year came against Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of their quarter-final after a dominant 4-0 victory in the first leg. The team's resilience and winning mentality have been key to their success, as manager Hansi Flick has instilled a sense of determination and grit in his players.
One of the standout players for Barcelona this season has been 22-year-old Pedri, who has emerged as one of the best players in the world. His ability to control the tempo of the game and make crucial decisions has been invaluable to the team's success. Alongside him, Raphinha, a candidate for the Ballon d'Or, has also contributed significantly, although his form has dipped slightly in recent weeks.
On the other side, Inter Milan is facing a challenging period, having lost three consecutive matches, including a recent defeat against AS Roma. This slump has raised concerns about their ability to compete at the highest level. Coach Simone Inzaghi will be looking to rally his squad, which includes Polish players Piotr Zieliński and Nicola Zalewski, although both are expected to start on the bench due to fitness concerns.
Historically, Barcelona and Inter have faced each other five times in the Champions League, with their most recent encounter ending in a dramatic 3-3 draw in October 2022. The teams have exchanged victories over the years, making this matchup particularly intriguing as both clubs aim to assert their dominance.
Betting odds reflect Barcelona's status as slight favorites, with odds of 1.62 for a win, while Inter's odds stand at 4.80. A draw is priced at 4.10. Analysts suggest that a Barcelona victory combined with under 4.5 goals is a likely outcome, given the tendency for first-leg matches to be tightly contested.
As the match approaches, the excitement is palpable. Barcelona fans are hopeful for a strong performance that will set them up favorably for the return leg in Milan. Meanwhile, Inter will be looking to turn their fortunes around and pull off an upset against the Spanish giants. With both teams having a rich history in the Champions League, this semi-final clash promises to be a thrilling encounter.
For those unable to watch the match on television, streaming options are available through Canal+ Online, where fans can catch every moment of the action live. The stakes are high, and both teams are ready to fight for their chance at glory in the Champions League final.
