As the clock ticks down to kick-off, the excitement surrounding the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg between Inter Milan and FC Barcelona is palpable. Set to commence at 21:00 CEST on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, this highly anticipated clash will take place at the iconic Giuseppe Meazza stadium, with a capacity exceeding 80,000. An estimated 5,000 Barcelona fans are expected to make the trip to support their team, underscoring the significance of this match.
Last week, the first leg ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw, leaving everything to play for in this decisive encounter. Both teams have been in formidable form domestically, and now they face off for a coveted spot in the Champions League final, scheduled for May 31 at the Allianz Arena in Munich.
The match will be officiated by Polish referee Szymon Marciniak, who has a mixed record with Barcelona, tallying one win, two draws, and two losses, including the previous match against Inter that ended in a draw. VAR duties will be handled by Dutch referee Dennis Higler.
Inter Milan enters this match with a recent 1-0 victory in Serie A, albeit with a squad featuring many substitutes. The team has demonstrated remarkable efficiency, needing only three shots on target to score three goals in the first leg against Barcelona. At home, Inter has lost just two matches in their domestic league, showcasing a solid defense that has conceded only 19 goals while scoring 38.
Coach Simone Inzaghi highlighted the importance of stopping Barcelona's young star, Lamine Yamal, stating, "Lamine is special, and we will need to make a strong defensive effort to contain him." Inzaghi also praised his counterpart, Hans Flick, for his coaching prowess and the achievements he has garnered.
In terms of player availability, Lautaro Martinez is expected to start after returning to group training, while Benjamin Pavard will miss out due to an ankle injury. Bisseck will take his place in the center of defense. Up front, Lautaro will partner with Marcus Thuram, adding firepower to Inter's attack.
On the other hand, Barcelona is on the brink of returning to the Champions League final for the first time since their triumph in 2015 against Juventus. Currently leading La Liga by four points and holding the titles of both the Cup and Super Cup, the team is riding high on confidence. Raphinha has been particularly influential in the Champions League, boasting 12 goals and eight assists.
Flick, the Barcelona coach, emphasized the need for his team to enjoy the game and keep the fans engaged. He acknowledged the necessity of defensive improvements and hinted at tactical changes from the first leg, where Barcelona's defense struggled against Inter's set pieces.
In terms of line-up changes, Flick has ruled out Robert Lewandowski as a starter, opting instead for Ferran Torres up front, with Raphinha and Yamal on the wings. Notably, Iñigo Martinez is likely to replace Jules Koundé on the left side of defense, while Eric García will take Koundé's place on the right.
As the teams prepare for battle, the match keys are clear. Inter's Hakan Calhanoglu has been pivotal, contributing significantly to set pieces, with six assists and ten goals this season. Meanwhile, Dumfries has emerged as a constant threat to Barcelona's defense, having scored two goals and created numerous chances in the first leg.
The emotional stakes of this match cannot be understated. After years of disappointment, Barcelona is eager to reclaim its status as a powerhouse in European football, and the players' synergy under Flick has been evident on the pitch. The team has shown resilience and determination, qualities that will be crucial in this high-pressure scenario.
With everything on the line, both teams will be looking to capitalize on their chances and secure a place in the final. The winner will not only advance but also have the opportunity to face either Arsenal or PSG, who are vying for the other spot in the final.
As anticipation builds, fans around the world are gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable night of football. The match will be broadcasted on various platforms, including Movistar Liga de Campeones, Amazon Prime in the UK, and Fubo, Paramount+, DirecTV, CBS, Univision, TUDN, and VIX in the USA.
The Opta Analyst supercomputer has given Barcelona a 38% chance of qualifying for the final, just edging out Inter Milan's 36%. The remaining 26% reflects the possibility of a draw that could lead to extra time. If the predictions hold true, a potential final between Barcelona and PSG could offer a thrilling narrative, given their storied history in European competitions.
As the teams take to the pitch, all eyes will be on the San Siro, where legends will be made and dreams will either be fulfilled or dashed. Who will emerge victorious and secure their place in the Champions League final? The stage is set, and the world is watching.
