Inter Milan and Barcelona delivered a thrilling spectacle in the Champions League semi-final return leg on May 6, 2025, at the iconic San Siro stadium, with Inter emerging victorious after a nail-biting 4-3 win on the night, securing a 7-6 aggregate triumph to book their place in the finals.
The match kicked off with both teams eager to assert their dominance. Inter struck first in the 21st minute, as Lautaro Martinez capitalized on a defensive lapse from Barcelona. Federico Dimarco dispossessed Frenkie de Jong in his own half and delivered a perfectly weighted pass to Denzel Dumfries, who squared it for Martinez to tap into an empty net. The San Siro erupted, setting the tone for an intense clash.
Barcelona, known for their attacking prowess, responded with vigor. They pressed high, creating several opportunities, but it was Inter who doubled their lead just before halftime. A VAR check confirmed a foul by Pau Cubarsi on Martinez, leading to a penalty. Hakan Calhanoglu confidently converted, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
However, the second half saw a dramatic shift in momentum. Barcelona came out with renewed energy and soon found themselves back in contention. In the 55th minute, Eric Garcia scored a stunning volley from a Gerard Martin cross, igniting hope for the Catalans. Just five minutes later, Dani Olmo leveled the match with a well-placed header, making it 2-2 and bringing the aggregate score to 5-5.
As the game progressed, Inter appeared to be on the back foot, struggling to maintain their earlier dominance. Yet, they managed to regain some composure, with goalkeeper Yann Sommer making crucial saves, including a spectacular stop against Lamine Yamal that kept the score level.
With the clock ticking down, Barcelona took the lead for the first time in the match. In the 87th minute, Raphinha capitalized on a rebound after Sommer initially saved his shot, putting Barcelona ahead 3-2 and seemingly on the brink of a historic comeback.
But Inter were not done yet. In a remarkable twist, 37-year-old Francesco Acerbi, who had been pushed forward in a last-ditch effort, scored an equalizer in the third minute of injury time, sending the match into extra time with the aggregate score at 6-6.
Extra time was tense, with both teams pushing for the decisive goal. It was Davide Frattesi who ultimately broke the deadlock in the first half of extra time, finishing coolly after a well-worked move involving Martinez. This goal put Inter ahead 7-6 on aggregate, and they held on despite a late surge from Barcelona.
Sommer, who had been named Player of the Match, made another crucial save to deny Yamal, ensuring Inter’s place in the final. His performance was pivotal, with fans and pundits alike lauding his incredible reflexes and shot-stopping ability throughout the match.
Inter's victory marked their second Champions League final appearance in three years, a testament to their resilience and tactical prowess under coach Simone Inzaghi. The match was hailed as one of the greatest semi-finals in Champions League history, with both teams displaying exceptional skill and determination.
Looking ahead, Inter will now prepare for the final, where they will face the challenge of another top European side. As for Barcelona, despite their valiant effort and spirited comeback, they will need to regroup and focus on their domestic campaign, seeking to learn from this heartbreaking exit.
This match not only showcased the high stakes of European football but also highlighted the unpredictable nature of knockout competitions, where fortunes can change in an instant. Fans will undoubtedly remember this clash for years to come, as Inter Milan continues to chase glory in the Champions League.
