In a thrilling encounter at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, Inter Milan triumphed over FC Barcelona with a score of 4-3 in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals, securing their place in the final. The match, held on May 6, 2025, was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring a total of seven goals and a dramatic finish that had fans on the edge of their seats.
The first leg, played in Barcelona, had ended in a 3-3 draw, setting the stage for an electrifying return fixture. Inter entered the match with a slight advantage but knew that Barcelona, with their attacking prowess, could turn the tide at any moment. The stakes were high, as the winner would advance to face either Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain in the final.
Right from the kickoff, the intensity was palpable. Inter drew first blood in the 21st minute when Lautaro Martínez converted a penalty, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. However, the joy was short-lived as Barcelona quickly regrouped. Hakan Çalhanoğlu extended Inter's lead to 2-0, showcasing a brilliant strike that left the Barcelona defense scrambling.
Barcelona, undeterred by the early setback, responded fiercely. Eric García scored in the 59th minute, narrowing the gap to 2-1. Just four minutes later, Dani Olmo leveled the score at 2-2, sending the visiting fans into a frenzy. The momentum seemed to swing in favor of Barcelona, who had regained their composure and were pushing for more.
Yet, Inter was not to be outdone. Francesco Acerbi struck back, making it 3-2 for the hosts in the 87th minute, only for Raphinha to equalize again for Barcelona in the dying moments, making it 3-3 and sending the match into extra time.
As the first half of extra time unfolded, tensions were high. Both teams showed signs of fatigue, but it was Inter who found the breakthrough. Davide Frattesi scored a stunning goal in the 98th minute, putting Inter ahead once more at 4-3. The stadium erupted as the home side celebrated what could be the decisive goal.
The second half of extra time saw Barcelona desperately seeking an equalizer, but Inter's defense held firm under pressure. The match concluded with Inter emerging victorious, sealing their place in the Champions League final.
This victory is monumental for Inter, marking their return to the Champions League final after a significant absence. They now await the winner of the PSG versus Arsenal match, which will determine who they face in the championship showdown.
Fans were treated to a match that had everything: drama, skill, and a display of tactical prowess from both sides. Inter's coach, Simone Inzaghi, praised his players for their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. “We showed character and determination. This win is for our fans, who have supported us throughout,” he stated in the post-match conference.
Barcelona, on the other hand, will reflect on what could have been. Despite their valiant effort, they fell short in the crucial moments. Coach Hansi Flick expressed disappointment but remained optimistic about the future. “We fought hard, but sometimes football can be cruel. We will learn from this experience and come back stronger,” he said.
The match was broadcast live on ESPN, FOX Sports, and Movistar Liga de Campeones, allowing fans across the globe to witness the excitement. The Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, with a capacity of 75,817, was filled to the brim, creating an electric atmosphere that added to the spectacle.
As the dust settles on this exhilarating semifinal, the football world turns its attention to the final, where Inter will look to claim their first Champions League title in years. With their recent form and a squad brimming with talent, they will be a formidable opponent for whoever emerges from the other semifinal.
In the meantime, the focus shifts to the ongoing developments in European football, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome of the PSG vs. Arsenal clash. The Champions League continues to deliver thrilling moments, and this semifinal will be remembered as one of the most exciting in recent history.
