In a thrilling encounter at the Giuseppe Meazza, Inter Milan defeated Barcelona 4-3 in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final on May 7, 2025, securing a dramatic aggregate victory of 7-6. This match, filled with intensity and excitement, marks Inter's return to the Champions League final for the first time since 2015, where they will face the winner of the Arsenal vs. Paris Saint-Germain match.
After a 3-3 draw in the first leg, both teams entered the match with a fierce determination to advance. Barcelona, under the guidance of coach Hansi Flick, fielded a strong attacking lineup featuring stars like Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres. However, it was Inter Milan who struck first, showcasing their tactical prowess.
In the 21st minute, Lautaro Martinez opened the scoring for Inter, capitalizing on a clever assist from Denzel Dumfries. Martinez's quick finish put the home side ahead 1-0, igniting the passionate crowd. Despite Barcelona's attempts to respond, they struggled to break down Inter's organized defense.
As the first half drew to a close, Inter doubled their lead when Calhanoglu converted a penalty in stoppage time after Cubarsi fouled Martinez in the box. The score was 2-0, leaving Barcelona with a mountain to climb in the second half.
Barcelona came out with renewed vigor after halftime, determined to overturn the deficit. Their efforts paid off in the 54th minute when Erick Garcia scored, narrowing the gap to 1-2. Just six minutes later, Dani Olmo equalized with a well-placed header, bringing the score to 2-2 and sending a wave of hope through the visiting fans.
With the momentum shifting, Barcelona took the lead in the 87th minute thanks to Raphinha, who scored with a powerful shot after a rebound. This goal made it 3-2 in favor of the Catalans, and it seemed like they were on the brink of reaching the final.
However, Inter Milan refused to back down. In a dramatic twist, Dumfries made a crucial play in the dying moments of the match, assisting Francesco Acerbi, who scored the equalizer in the 90+3 minute, making it 3-3 and forcing the match into extra time. The atmosphere in the stadium was electric as fans erupted in cheers, knowing their team had a chance to continue the fight.
With both teams exhausted, Inter Milan displayed superior fitness and control during extra time. In the 99th minute, Marcus Thuram's pace and vision led to a crucial assist for Davide Frattesi, who scored the decisive goal, putting Inter ahead 4-3. The home side held on to their lead, and Barcelona's attempts to equalize were thwarted by Inter's solid defense and the outstanding performance of goalkeeper Yann Sommer.
Sommer, who made seven crucial saves throughout the match, was named UEFA's Player of the Match for his heroics. His performance was vital in keeping Inter in the game during Barcelona's dominant spells.
This semi-final clash has been hailed as one of the most dramatic in Champions League history, with a total of 13 goals scored across both legs, matching the record set in the 2017/18 semi-final between Liverpool and AS Roma. The intensity and skill displayed by both teams captivated fans around the globe.
For Barcelona, this defeat marks another disappointing chapter in their recent Champions League history, as they have not reached the final since 2015. Despite the loss, young star Lamine Yamal shone with 14 successful dribbles, the most in a Champions League match since Neymar in 2020, showcasing his potential as a future star.
As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, Inter Milan now turns its attention to the final, where they aim to secure their fourth Champions League title. The final will take place at the Allianz Arena in Munich on May 31, 2025, and Inter will be eager to capitalize on their recent success and bring home the coveted trophy.
With the Champions League final on the horizon, fans of both Inter Milan and Barcelona will be reflecting on a match that will be remembered for its drama, skill, and the relentless pursuit of victory. For Inter, the journey continues, while Barcelona must regroup and focus on their domestic ambitions as they prepare for the El Clasico against Real Madrid on May 11.
