In a thrilling UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg, Inter Milan triumphed over Barcelona 4-3 after extra time, securing a remarkable 7-6 aggregate victory to advance to the final in Munich on May 31, 2025. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Inter initially leading 2-0 before Barcelona mounted a comeback to take the lead, only for Francesco Acerbi to equalize in the dying minutes, sending the match into extra time.
The first leg at Montjuic had ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw, setting the stage for a high-stakes return leg at the iconic San Siro. Inter came into the match with a slight advantage, but the absence of Benjamin Pavard was felt, while Barcelona was missing key players like Jules Koundé due to injury. Despite these setbacks, both teams showcased their attacking prowess.
Inter got off to a flying start when Lautaro Martinez opened the scoring in the 21st minute, tapping in a well-placed pass from Denzel Dumfries. The Argentine’s goal was a result of Inter's relentless pressure, and it sent a wave of excitement through the home crowd. Just before the half-time whistle, Hakan Calhanoglu converted a penalty after a controversial foul by Pau Cubarsi on Martinez, doubling Inter's lead to 2-0.
However, Barcelona responded fiercely after the break. Eric Garcia pulled one back for the visitors in the 54th minute with a stunning volley that found the top corner, igniting hope among the traveling fans. Just six minutes later, Dani Olmo leveled the match at 2-2 with a diving header, completing a remarkable turnaround.
As the match progressed, Inter appeared to be on the back foot, and Barcelona seized control. Raphinha scored in the 88th minute to give Barcelona a 3-2 lead, putting them on the brink of advancing to the final. Yet, just when it seemed all hope was lost for Inter, Acerbi delivered a moment of magic. In the 93rd minute, he struck a powerful shot into the roof of the net, leveling the match at 3-3 and sending the game into extra time.
With momentum on their side, Inter wasted no time in extra time. Just four minutes in, Davide Frattesi scored what would be the decisive goal, showcasing his composure as he slotted the ball past the keeper after a clever dummy. This goal not only put Inter ahead 4-3 on the night but also secured their place in the final.
Throughout the match, Inter's defense, usually their strong suit, was tested repeatedly. Yann Sommer, the team's goalkeeper, had to make several crucial saves to keep his team in the game, particularly against the likes of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, who were relentless in their attacks.
Despite conceding three goals, Inter's ability to adapt and counter Barcelona's attacking style was commendable. Coach Simone Inzaghi's tactical adjustments allowed his team to play a more offensive game than usual, which proved crucial in a match that required quick thinking and adaptability.
In the aftermath of the match, Inzaghi praised his team's resilience, stating, "We showed great character to come back and fight until the last minute. This is what football is about—never giving up and believing in ourselves."
Barcelona, on the other hand, will be left to ponder their missed opportunities. The team fought hard and displayed moments of brilliance, especially in their comeback, but ultimately fell short. Coach Xavi Hernandez expressed disappointment but also pride in his team's effort, saying, "We played well, but we need to be more consistent defensively. We had the game in our hands and let it slip away."
The Champions League final now awaits Inter Milan, where they will face either Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain, who are set to battle it out in the other semifinal. As the anticipation builds for the final in Munich, Inter will look to carry this momentum and secure their place in history.
This match will be remembered not just for the goals, but for the sheer drama and the display of skill from both teams. With the stakes so high, fans can only hope for a final that matches the excitement of this semifinal.
As the dust settles on this unforgettable encounter, it’s clear that Inter Milan has proven they can compete at the highest level, and they’ll head into the final with confidence and determination.
