In one of the most thrilling encounters in recent Champions League history, Inter Milan triumphed over Barcelona 4-3 in extra time to secure their place in the final on May 6, 2025. The match at the iconic San Siro had fans on the edge of their seats as both teams displayed extraordinary skill and determination.
After a dramatic first leg that ended 3-3, the stakes were high for both teams. Inter started strong, with Lautaro Martinez scoring the opener just 22 minutes into the match. Federico Dimarco, who was instrumental in the build-up, intercepted a pass from Dani Olmo and quickly set up Denzel Dumfries, who delivered a perfect cross for Martinez to convert.
Just before halftime, Inter doubled their lead when Hakan Calhanoglu converted a penalty awarded after a VAR review deemed Pau Cubarsi's challenge on Martinez a foul. The San Siro erupted as the home side took a commanding 2-0 lead into the break.
However, Barcelona, known for their resilience, came roaring back in the second half. Eric Garcia volleyed in a stunning goal from a Gerard Martin cross just nine minutes after the restart, reigniting Barcelona's hopes. They continued to press, and Dani Olmo leveled the score with a powerful header, making it 2-2.
With the momentum shifting, Barcelona took the lead in the 87th minute when Raphinha capitalized on a rebound after his initial shot was saved by Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer. The visitors looked set to clinch the tie, but Inter had other plans. In a dramatic twist, Francesco Acerbi scored a last-minute equalizer, directing Dumfries' cross into the net, sending the match into extra time.
In the additional 30 minutes, both teams fought hard, but it was Inter who found the decisive goal. Just nine minutes into extra time, Davide Frattesi, who came on as a substitute, scored with a well-placed shot into the far corner, putting Inter ahead 4-3.
Despite Barcelona's attempts to respond, Inter's defense held firm, and they managed to secure their spot in the final. This victory marks Inter's second Champions League final appearance in three years, as they aim to capture their fourth title.
After the match, Federico Dimarco shared his thoughts, stating, "What do I feel? Honestly, I have no words for what happened tonight. We went ahead, then behind, and we managed to recover an incredible game. It was a great night." He praised the team's unity and focus throughout the match, emphasizing the importance of staying composed under pressure.
Dimarco also highlighted the role of coach Simone Inzaghi, saying, "He’s our leader, he shows us the way, and he does it very well. Even in difficult moments, he lightens the mood with a joke, and that’s his strength." Inzaghi's leadership has been pivotal in guiding Inter through a challenging season.
Inter's Denzel Dumfries, who was a standout performer, echoed Dimarco's sentiments, stating, “It was a crazy match, we fought until the end and very proud about how we fought.” Dumfries played a crucial role in both setting up goals and defending against Barcelona's onslaught.
As Inter prepares for the final, they await the winner of the other semi-final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, set to take place later this month. The French side currently holds a slender advantage, but given the drama witnessed in this tie, anything is possible.
With a rich history in European football, Inter Milan will be looking to add another Champions League trophy to their cabinet. The final, scheduled for May 31, 2025, promises to be an exciting clash, and fans will be eagerly anticipating who will emerge victorious.
In a match filled with emotion, skill, and heart-stopping moments, Inter Milan has proven their mettle on the European stage. They have shown that they can withstand pressure and come out on top, and as they look to secure glory once more, the football world will be watching closely.
