Inter Milan secured a thrilling place in the UEFA Champions League final after edging out Barcelona 4-3 in a dramatic semifinal match at the San Siro on May 6, 2025. The victory, which saw Inter triumph 7-6 on aggregate, was punctuated by an astonishing extra-time winner from substitute Davide Frattesi, who scored in the 99th minute, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
The match was marked by two remarkable comebacks from Barcelona and a total of 13 goals, showcasing the high stakes and fierce competition between these European giants. Inter, who lost the final to Manchester City in 2023, will now face either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal in the final in Munich on May 31.
As the match unfolded, it seemed like Inter would comfortably advance after a commanding first half where they led 2-0. Lautaro Martínez opened the scoring with a brilliant goal, followed by a penalty converted by Hakan Çalhanoğlu just before halftime. The Nerazzurri appeared to be in control, but the second half told a different story.
Barcelona, determined to fight back, began their resurgence shortly after the break. Eric García scored just nine minutes into the second half, igniting hopes for the visitors. Six minutes later, Dani Olmo leveled the score at 2-2, capitalizing on Inter's momentary lapse in defense.
With the clock ticking down, Raphinha seemed to have secured a dramatic victory for Barcelona, scoring in the 88th minute to give them a 3-2 lead. However, just as the Barcelona supporters began to celebrate, Francesco Acerbi delivered a stunning equalizer for Inter in the second minute of stoppage time, forcing the match into extra time.
Frattesi, who had been a game-changer off the bench, proved his worth once again. He controlled a pass from Mehdi Taremi, maneuvered around Pau Cubarsí, and curled a precise shot past the Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny. This goal not only marked Frattesi's seventh of the season but was arguably the most significant of his career, coming at such a critical moment.
The San Siro erupted in celebration, and the atmosphere was electric as fans cheered on their team. Inter's goalkeeper, Yann Sommer, played a crucial role in maintaining the tie during Barcelona's second-half resurgence. He made a spectacular save in the 113th minute from a shot by Lamine Yamal, ensuring Inter held onto their lead.
Simone Inzaghi's side had faced significant challenges throughout the season, including relinquishing their top spot in Serie A to Napoli and being eliminated from the Italian Cup by AC Milan just a fortnight ago. However, this victory has revitalized their campaign, providing a much-needed boost and a chance to claim their fourth Champions League title.
As the final whistle blew, the players embraced, and the fans celebrated a historic comeback that will be remembered for years to come. Inter's resilience and determination were on full display, proving that they are a force to be reckoned with in European football.
Looking ahead, Inter now prepares for what promises to be a thrilling final in Munich, with the potential to add to their illustrious history in the Champions League. Whether they face PSG or Arsenal, the Nerazzurri will be fueled by the belief that they can reclaim their status as kings of Europe.
