FC Barcelona's hopes for a Champions League title came crashing down on May 7, 2025, as they fell to Inter Milan in a thrilling semi-final clash. The match, held at the iconic Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in Milan, ended with a nail-biting score of 4-3 after extra time, culminating in a 7-6 aggregate defeat for the Spanish giants. This unexpected exit has significant implications for the ongoing Ballon d'Or race, shaking up the landscape of potential winners.
Barcelona entered the second leg with a 3-3 draw from the first match, and the stakes were high. Both teams showcased their attacking prowess, with Barcelona fielding a strong lineup that included Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati, Lamine Yamal, and Pedri. Despite their efforts, they struggled to contain Inter Milan's relentless offense.
Inter Milan, who had been on a five-match winless streak, managed to turn their fortunes around with a hard-fought victory. Lautaro Martinez, who had been sidelined due to injury, made a crucial impact, helping to secure Inter's place in the final for the first time in 15 years since their triumph in the 2009-2010 season.
The match unfolded dramatically, with both teams exchanging blows. Inter struck first with a penalty from Hakan Calhanoglu after Martinez drew a foul in the box. However, Barcelona responded valiantly, with Dani Olmo equalizing with a header off a cross, showcasing the resilience that has characterized their season.
As the match progressed, the tension escalated. Barcelona's Hapiña scored a stunning goal, bringing the score to 4-3 and igniting hopes of a comeback. Yet, Inter Milan's defense held firm, and their goalkeeper, Yann Sommer, made several crucial saves to keep Barcelona at bay.
With the match heading into extra time, both teams were visibly fatigued but determined. Barcelona pushed forward, attempting to capitalize on any defensive lapses from Inter. The final moments were intense, with Barcelona launching a barrage of attacks, but they were unable to find the back of the net again.
Ultimately, Inter's victory not only secured their place in the Champions League final against either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal but also reshaped the Ballon d'Or landscape. With Barcelona's exit, Lamine Yamal and Hapiña, who were previously considered strong contenders, now face uncertainty regarding their chances.
The Ballon d'Or race is particularly influenced by Champions League performances in non-World Cup years, and this defeat has opened the door for other players to emerge as favorites. Ousmane Dembele of PSG, who has already secured a Ligue 1 title, could gain an advantage if his team reaches the final.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool remains a formidable contender, boasting impressive statistics this season with 28 goals and 18 assists in the Premier League. His performance has kept him in the spotlight, and he aims to surpass Thierry Henry's record of 20 goals and 20 assists in a single season.
Additionally, Lautaro Martinez's standout performance in the semi-finals has positioned him as a dark horse in the Ballon d'Or race. If Inter Milan can clinch the Serie A title along with the Champions League, Martinez's chances of winning the prestigious award will significantly increase.
Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior are also key players to watch in the Ballon d'Or competition. Mbappe was rated as a top contender before Real Madrid's exit in the quarter-finals, and both players could benefit if Real Madrid secures the La Liga title in their upcoming match against Barcelona.
Despite Barcelona's lead in La Liga, with a four-point gap over Real Madrid, they have yet to confirm their championship status with four games remaining. The outcome of the Champions League and the performance of key players in the final stretch of the season will ultimately determine the Ballon d'Or winner.
The landscape of the 2025 Ballon d'Or has become more unpredictable than ever, especially with the FIFA Club World Cup taking place in June and July. The results from this tournament could further influence the selection of the award's recipient, making it a thrilling conclusion to the season.
As the dust settles on this dramatic semi-final, the football world eagerly anticipates the Champions League final and the unfolding Ballon d'Or race. With so much at stake, every match and every goal could prove pivotal in deciding who will be crowned the best in the world.
