In a thrilling showdown at the San Siro, Inter Milan faced off against Barcelona in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals on May 6, 2025. The match was set against the backdrop of a dramatic first leg, which ended in a 3-3 draw, leaving both teams eager to secure a place in the final.
Simone Inzaghi's Inter Milan made headlines with the announcement of a key change in their lineup: Yann Bisseck stepped in to replace the injured Benjamin Pavard, who was unable to recover from an ankle sprain sustained in a previous match against Roma. Despite initial hopes for Pavard's return, his swollen ankle kept him sidelined, forcing Inzaghi to rely on the young French defender Bisseck at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.
Bisseck's inclusion in the starting eleven was critical, as he joined forces with experienced defenders Alessandro Bastoni and Francesco Acerbi in a three-man defense. The rest of the lineup remained unchanged, with Federico Dimarco and Denzel Dumfries retaining their spots on the wings. However, Inter's fans were left to wonder if Bisseck could replicate Pavard's influence in such a high-stakes match.
On the other side, Barcelona's coach Hansi Flick made a minor adjustment to his squad, bringing in Eric Garcia to replace the injured Jules Kounde at right-back. The Catalan giants were looking to capitalize on the momentum from the first leg, where they had shown resilience and skill.
As the match kicked off at 1900 GMT, all eyes were on Inter's captain Lautaro Martinez, who had returned from a hamstring injury just in time for this crucial encounter. Having not played since the first leg, Martinez's presence was a significant boost for the team, as he had scored seven times in the Champions League since the start of the year, including crucial goals in the quarterfinals against Bayern Munich.
Early in the match, Martinez made his mark by scoring the opening goal, sending the San Siro into a frenzy. His strike not only showcased his incredible skill but also reaffirmed his status as a key player for Inter. The Argentine forward's performance was further highlighted when he won a penalty later in the first half, demonstrating his ability to influence the game in critical moments.
Joining Martinez in attack was his favored strike partner, Marcus Thuram, who had dazzled fans with a stunning backheeled goal in the first leg. The duo's chemistry was palpable as they navigated through Barcelona's defense, looking for opportunities to extend Inter's lead.
The first half was a showcase of high-octane football, with both teams trading chances and displaying their tactical prowess. Inter's midfield, led by Nicolo Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu, worked tirelessly to control the pace of the game, while Barcelona's formidable trio of Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Raphinha sought to penetrate Inter's defense.
As the match progressed, it became clear that both teams were playing for their Champions League lives. Inter's defensive unit, with Bisseck, Bastoni, and Acerbi, faced relentless pressure from Barcelona's attacking front. However, they held firm, repelling several threatening attacks and maintaining their narrow lead.
With the match reaching its climax, the tension in the stadium was electric. Fans from both sides were on the edge of their seats, knowing that any mistake could cost their team a place in the final. The referee, Szymon Marciniak, kept a close eye on the proceedings, ensuring that the match remained competitive and fair.
As the clock ticked down, Inter's determination shone through. They were not just playing for a spot in the final; they were fighting for their pride and the chance to bring home a prestigious trophy. The players' commitment was evident as they chased every ball and contested every challenge with fervor.
Barcelona, too, was not ready to concede defeat. With Robert Lewandowski on the bench, the pressure fell on Ferran Torres, who led the line for the Catalans. The Spanish forward, supported by the likes of Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, sought to find a breakthrough that would keep Barcelona's hopes alive.
As the final whistle approached, the atmosphere in the San Siro reached a fever pitch. Fans were left holding their breath, fully aware that this match could define the season for both clubs. Inter's players, buoyed by the support of their passionate fans, pushed forward in search of a second goal to secure their advantage.
In the end, the match was not just about the scoreline; it was a testament to the resilience and skill of both teams. Inter Milan, with their tactical discipline and fighting spirit, aimed to carve their name into the annals of Champions League history, while Barcelona, with their rich legacy, sought to continue their quest for European glory.
As the dust settled on this epic encounter, one thing was clear: football fans around the world were treated to a classic Champions League battle, filled with drama, skill, and unforgettable moments. The outcome of this match would resonate long after the final whistle blew, shaping the narratives of both clubs as they looked ahead to the future.
