In a thrilling encounter at the San Siro, Inter Milan triumphed over Barcelona with a final score of 4-3 in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final, securing their place in the final with an aggregate score of 7-6. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams exchanging leads before Davide Frattesi netted the decisive goal in the dying moments of the game.
The first half saw Inter Milan establish dominance early on. Just 21 minutes into the match, Lautaro Martínez found the back of the net, giving Inter a 1-0 lead. The momentum continued to swing in their favor when, just before halftime, Hakan Çalhanoğlu converted a penalty after a foul in the box, extending the lead to 2-0.
However, Barcelona was not to be underestimated. The second half commenced with a renewed vigor from the Catalan side. Eric García struck first for Barcelona in the 54th minute, narrowing the gap to 2-1. Just six minutes later, Dani Olmo leveled the score at 2-2 with a well-placed header, sending the visiting fans into a frenzy.
As the match progressed, it seemed Barcelona had seized control when Raphinha scored in the 87th minute, putting them ahead 3-2 and on the brink of advancing to the final. But Inter Milan displayed incredible resilience. In a dramatic turn of events, Francesco Acerbi scored a crucial equalizer in the 90+3 minute, sending the match into extra time.
With both teams exhausted but determined, the extra time began. In the 99th minute, Inter Milan capitalized on a defensive error by Barcelona. Marcus Thuram regained possession and set up Davide Frattesi, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner of the net, igniting celebrations among the home fans.
Frattesi's goal not only secured the victory for Inter Milan but also marked a significant milestone for the player, who expressed his joy after the match. "I was lucky to finish this game; I celebrated so hard that I saw black in front of my eyes," he said. "I want to thank the medical team; I wasn't in great shape these past few days. This victory is for them. It's unbelievable; I don't know what to say. Tonight was truly a miracle."
Inter Milan's progression to the Champions League final is a remarkable achievement, marking their second appearance in three years. In the previous final during the 2022-23 season, they fell short against Manchester City, losing 0-1. This time, they will face either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal, who are set to clash in their second leg on May 8, 2025. Currently, Paris Saint-Germain leads the aggregate score 1-0.
Barcelona's coach, Hansi Flick, reflected on the disappointment of the loss but praised his team's efforts throughout the match. "I am disappointed, but not with the performance of the team. They gave their all and played very well. We got eliminated, but we will try again next season. We will continue to work hard to make our fans and the club proud," Flick stated. He also extended his congratulations to Inter Milan, acknowledging their strong defensive play and teamwork.
As for Barcelona, their focus now shifts back to La Liga, where they will face their arch-rivals Real Madrid this Sunday. Currently, Barcelona holds a four-point lead over Madrid in the standings, making the upcoming clash crucial for their title aspirations.
The San Siro witnessed a match that will be remembered for its intensity and drama, showcasing the very best of European football. Inter Milan, with their sights set on lifting the Champions League trophy for the fourth time in their history, will now prepare for the final in Munich. The stage is set, and the excitement is palpable as fans eagerly await the showdown between two of Europe's elite clubs.
