In a thrilling Champions League semi-final that will be remembered for its dramatic twists and turns, Inter Milan triumphed over FC Barcelona 4-3 in extra time at the iconic San Siro on May 6, 2025. This match followed a gripping first leg that ended in a 3-3 draw, setting the stage for an electrifying return fixture.
The evening began with a packed stadium, as approximately 75,000 passionate supporters filled the stands, eager to witness their teams battle for a spot in the prestigious final. The atmosphere was electric, with Inter Milan fans hopeful that their team could maintain their undefeated home record in the Champions League this season.
Inter Milan struck first when Marcus Thuram found the net in the opening minute, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. However, Barcelona quickly responded, showcasing their resilience and attacking prowess. After falling behind 2-0, the Catalan giants mounted a comeback in the second half. Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo scored to level the match, igniting hopes of a Barcelona victory.
As the match progressed, Barcelona took the lead with a stunning goal from Raphinha in the 87th minute, making the score 3-2. At this point, it seemed that the visitors were on the brink of qualification, with fans celebrating what appeared to be a decisive moment. Yet, the drama was far from over.
In a breathtaking turn of events, Inter Milan equalized in the dying moments of the match. Francesco Acerbi, at the age of 37, scored his first-ever Champions League goal in the 93rd minute, sending the game into extra time. Acerbi's late goal not only reignited hope for Inter but also left those who had left the stadium in disbelief, as they attempted to re-enter to witness the unfolding drama.
Despite their efforts, security rules prevented the departing fans from re-entering the stadium, forcing them to watch from outside as their team fought for victory. The tension was palpable as both teams entered extra time, with everything on the line.
As the extra period unfolded, Inter Milan seized the moment, with Davide Frattesi scoring the decisive goal, securing a 4-3 victory and sending the Nerazzurri to the final. The jubilant scenes that followed were a testament to the team's determination and the unwavering support of their fans.
Coach Simone Inzaghi expressed his pride in the team's performance, stating, "The players showed incredible spirit and resilience tonight. We never gave up, and that’s what makes this victory so special." On the other hand, Barcelona's coach Xavi reflected on the missed opportunities, saying, "We fought hard and showed our quality, but in the end, we couldn’t hold on to the lead. It’s a tough loss, but we will learn from this experience."
This match not only showcased the intense rivalry between these two footballing giants but also highlighted the unpredictability of the beautiful game. With both teams having exchanged blows throughout the two legs, the final score of 4-3 in favor of Inter Milan was a fitting conclusion to a thrilling semi-final.
Looking ahead, Inter Milan will face either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal in the Champions League final on May 31, 2025. The anticipation is already building as fans eagerly await what promises to be another epic encounter.
This semi-final clash will be remembered not just for the scoreline but for the sheer drama that unfolded on the pitch. Football, as always, proved that anything can happen until the final whistle blows, and this match was a perfect embodiment of that sentiment.
