In a thrilling UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg, Inter Milan triumphed over Barcelona with a score of 4-3 after extra time, advancing to the final with a 7-6 aggregate victory. The match, held in Milan on May 7, 2025, was a rollercoaster of emotions that saw both teams showcase their attacking prowess.
Inter Milan struck first in the 21st minute when Dumfries delivered a precise cross, allowing Lautaro Martinez to slot the ball home. This goal marked Martinez's 21st in the Champions League, making him the club's all-time leading scorer in the competition. The Argentine forward's impressive season continued as he has netted nine goals in this year's tournament, equaling the record set by Hernan Crespo for the most goals in a single season for Inter.
As the first half progressed, Inter doubled their lead just before halftime. Martinez was fouled in the penalty area, earning a penalty kick. Hakan Calhanoglu stepped up and confidently converted, putting Inter ahead 2-0. The lead, however, was met with controversy as former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger criticized the penalty decision, suggesting Martinez initiated the contact.
After the break, Barcelona came out with renewed vigor, and their efforts paid off quickly. Eric Garcia scored in the 54th minute, capitalizing on a well-placed cross to pull one back for the visitors. Just six minutes later, Olmo leveled the score at 2-2, sending the match into a frenzy.
Barcelona continued to press and took the lead in the 87th minute through Raphinha, who scored after his initial shot was saved by Inter goalkeeper Sommer. This goal seemed to put Barcelona in the driver's seat with a 3-2 advantage, but Inter was not finished yet.
In a dramatic turn of events, Acerbi scored a crucial equalizer in stoppage time, connecting with a cross from Dumfries to make it 3-3. This goal not only sent the match into extra time but also marked Acerbi's first goal in European competitions in nearly 20 years of professional football.
As the first half of extra time unfolded, Frattesi, who had come on as a substitute, scored the decisive goal in the 99th minute. His well-placed shot from inside the box sealed the victory for Inter Milan, securing their spot in the final.
Sommer's performance was instrumental in the match, as he made seven crucial saves, earning him the title of man of the match. Barcelona's young star Yamal had five shots on target, all thwarted by Sommer, and even struck the post at one point, showcasing the goalkeeper's skill.
Post-match, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick voiced his frustrations regarding the officiating, stating, "I don't want to say too much about the referee, but every 50-50 decision seemed to go in favor of Inter Milan. I'm disappointed, but not with my team. They gave their all." Flick's comments came after a controversial moment when the referee, Marniciak, reversed a penalty decision awarded to Barcelona after a VAR review, changing it to a free kick because the foul occurred outside the penalty area.
On the other hand, Inter's coach Simone Inzaghi lauded his team's resilience, saying, "I wouldn't trade any of my players for anyone, even someone as talented as Yamal. I applaud them; they put on two fantastic performances. They deserve to enjoy this success at home."
With this victory, Inter Milan has advanced to their first Champions League final in two years and their seventh overall. They will face either Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain in the final, as they look to capture European football's most prestigious trophy once again.
This match will be remembered not only for its dramatic swings and high stakes but also for the individual performances that shone through the intensity of the competition. As both teams prepare for their respective futures, the excitement surrounding the final continues to build, promising another thrilling chapter in this year's Champions League saga.
