The excitement is palpable as Inter Milan prepares to host FC Barcelona in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final on May 6, 2025, at the iconic San Siro stadium. With the first leg ending in a thrilling 3-3 draw, both teams are poised for a clash that promises intense emotions and spectacular plays.
Kickoff is set for 21:00 local time, and the stakes couldn't be higher. The winner will secure a spot in the final, where they will face either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal. For Inter, this match represents a chance to reach their second Champions League final in three years, following their defeat to Manchester City in 2022.
Under the guidance of coach Simone Inzaghi, the Nerazzurri are coming off a narrow victory against Hellas Verona in Serie A, which has boosted their confidence heading into this pivotal match. Inzaghi has stated, "We know how important this game is. We need to play a great match against a very strong team. It will take a focused and sharp Inter to overcome such a formidable opponent."
One of the key developments leading up to the match is the fitness of captain Lautaro Martinez. Initially a doubt due to an elongation in his left thigh flexors sustained in the first leg, Martinez has been declared fit to start. "The will of Lautaro to play will have its weight," Inzaghi added, emphasizing the importance of his leadership on the pitch.
Inter's probable lineup for the match is a 3-5-2 formation, featuring goalkeeper Sommer; defenders Bisseck, Acerbi, and Bastoni; midfielders Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, and Dimarco; with Lautaro Martinez and Thuram leading the attack. However, they will be without Benji Pavard, who remains sidelined due to injury.
On the other side, Barcelona, managed by Hans-Dieter Flick, is also looking to return to the upper echelons of European football after a decade-long absence from the Champions League final. Flick has made strategic changes to his lineup, opting for a 4-2-3-1 formation. The Catalans are expected to field Szczesny in goal; a defense comprising Eric Garcia, Cubarsí, Iñigo Martinez, and Gerard Martin; a midfield featuring De Jong and Pedri; and an attacking trio of Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Raphinha supporting Ferran Torres up front.
Notably, Barcelona will be without defender Koundé, while star striker Robert Lewandowski, who has recovered from injury, will start on the bench. Flick commented on Lewandowski's situation: "I think it’s better that Lewandowski starts from the bench, but he’s ready. Everything is going well, and he feels much better. We might need him during the game."
The historical context of this matchup adds to the drama. Inter and Barcelona have faced each other 16 times, with 12 of those encounters occurring in the Champions League. Inter famously triumphed over Barcelona in 2010, a victory that remains etched in the memories of their supporters.
As the match approaches, the atmosphere at San Siro is expected to be electric, with over 75,000 fans ready to rally behind their team. The Curva Nord, known for its passionate support, has announced that they will cheer from the first minute, despite ongoing protests regarding ticket prices and the restrictions on banners and flags.
Financially, the match is already historic for Inter, as it is set to generate record revenue, with an estimated 14 million euros expected to flow into the club's coffers. This surpasses the previous Italian record from their semi-final against AC Milan two years ago.
Former Inter striker Ivan Zamorano weighed in on the match, stating, "Whoever wins this semi-final will go on to win the cup. The team must focus on maintaining possession to unsettle their opponents. It won't be easy, but controlling the game will be key to advancing."
UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin also praised Inter’s season, stating, "Inter has had a great season. They are an experienced team with an excellent coach, and I predicted they would go far in this tournament."
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, anticipation builds for what promises to be a memorable night in Milan. With both teams hungry for glory and the final within reach, fans can expect nothing short of a fierce battle on the pitch.
Inter and Barcelona are set to clash in a match that not only determines who advances to the final but also serves as a testament to their storied histories in European football. The stage is set, and the world will be watching as these two giants of the game vie for a chance to lift the coveted trophy.
With the first leg ending in a draw, all eyes will be on San Siro to see if Inter can harness the home advantage and make history once again. The excitement is building, and the players are ready to deliver an unforgettable performance.
