In a thrilling UEFA Champions League semi-final clash, Inter Milan emerged victorious over Barcelona with a dramatic 4-3 win in the second leg, securing their spot in the final with an aggregate score of 7-6. The match, held on May 6, 2025, at the iconic San Siro, showcased a rollercoaster of emotions as both teams fought fiercely for a place in the coveted final.
Inter Milan, led by their star player Denzel Dumfries, took an early lead in the first half. Dumfries set the tone just 21 minutes into the match, assisting Lautaro Martinez for the opening goal. Following that, Hakan Calhanoglu extended the lead with a penalty, sending the home crowd into a frenzy as Inter went up 2-0 at halftime.
However, the second half saw a remarkable turnaround as Barcelona responded with a vengeance. Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo scored in quick succession, leveling the match at 2-2. Just when it seemed like Inter had the upper hand, Raphinha struck late in the game, putting Barcelona ahead 3-2 and leaving the home fans in shock.
Yet, Inter Milan refused to back down. In the dying moments of the match, Francesco Acerbi scored a crucial equalizer, bringing the score to 3-3 and forcing the game into extra time. The aggregate score stood at 6-6, setting the stage for a nail-biting conclusion.
In extra time, Davide Frattesi became the hero for Inter Milan, netting the decisive goal that secured their 4-3 victory. This win not only advanced Inter to the final but also marked their second appearance in the Champions League final in three years.
Denzel Dumfries had a standout performance throughout the two-legged semi-final, contributing to five goals—two goals and three assists—making him a formidable force against Barcelona. According to OPTA statistics, Dumfries is now the third player in Champions League history to create five or more goals in a semi-final round.
After the match, Inter Milan's coach, Simone Inzaghi, praised his team's effort, calling it a "monster-like" display. He expressed his pride in the players, stating, "I’m happy to be their coach; they gave everything they could. They deserve to enjoy this moment of success. We faced some difficulties, but we overcame them with heart and teamwork. It’s a well-deserved progression to the final."
On the other side, Barcelona's dream of achieving a treble this season was dashed with this defeat. Having already secured the Spanish Cup and currently sitting atop La Liga, the loss in the Champions League semi-final was a bitter pill to swallow. Coach Xavi Hernandez expressed disappointment, stating, "I believe Barcelona has once again earned respect across Europe. We are a young team, and this experience will surely help us in the future. It’s just the beginning, and I’m satisfied with what we’ve shown so far."
However, the aftermath of the match was marred by controversy. Both Xavi and midfielder Sergio Busquets criticized the officiating, particularly referee Massimiliano Irrati, claiming that many 50/50 decisions favored Inter Milan. Xavi remarked, "I think there were some decisions that were not in our favor, and we have to accept reality." Busquets went further, calling for UEFA to investigate the referee’s performance, stating, "All 50/50 decisions went in favor of Inter. This referee's decisions have not been favorable to us in the past, and I don’t understand some of his calls tonight."
As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, Inter Milan is now set to face either Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final. The anticipation builds as fans eagerly await to see if Inter can lift the trophy once again, while Barcelona must regroup and focus on their remaining domestic commitments.
This match will surely be remembered not only for its intensity and drama but also for the remarkable performances from players like Dumfries, who has solidified his status as a key player in European football. With the final approaching, the excitement surrounding the Champions League continues to grow, promising more unforgettable moments ahead.
