In a thrilling showdown at San Siro, Inter Milan is set to face Barcelona in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final on May 6, 2025, at 20:00 UK time (19:00 GMT, 21:00 CET). Following a dramatic first leg that ended in a 3-3 draw, both teams are eager to secure their place in the final, making this match a must-watch for football fans around the world.
Inter's head coach, Simone Inzaghi, has made the bold decision to start Lautaro Martinez despite concerns over his fitness. The Argentine striker limped off the pitch during the first leg with a muscular injury but has made a remarkable recovery. "He trained well yesterday, so the sensations were positive," Inzaghi stated in an interview with Sky Sport Italia. "The injury was a hardening of the muscle; it wasn’t a lesion. He felt good in the muscular warm-up this morning too. He is our captain, and it is only right that he plays."
Martinez, who has been a key player for Inter this season with 21 goals and six assists across all competitions, will be crucial for the team’s hopes of advancing. His presence on the field not only boosts Inter's attacking options but also serves as a morale booster for the fans. Inzaghi expressed his confidence in Martinez’s fitness and ability to perform under pressure.
On the other hand, Barcelona is facing a more challenging situation regarding injuries. The Catalan giants will be without several key players, including Jules Koundé, Alejandro Balde, Marc Bernal, Pablo Torre, and Marc Casadó, all sidelined due to various injuries. However, there is a glimmer of hope for Barcelona as Robert Lewandowski returns to the bench after recovering from a hamstring strain sustained on April 19, 2025. Wojciech Szczesny will start in goal, despite Marc-André ter Stegen's return to fitness.
Inzaghi also confirmed that Federico Dimarco will take the left wing position, a decision that signals Inter's intent to maintain their attacking momentum. "We must work as a team, do just as well as in the first leg, knowing they have very talented players. We will try together to limit them as much as possible," Inzaghi remarked, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in their strategy against Barcelona.
The stakes are high for both teams as they vie for a spot in the final. Inzaghi conveyed his belief in the team's potential to reach a second Champions League final within three years. "I believe a great deal because we’ve done so well this far. The first leg was a draw; we want to give our fans this dream. We know there are difficulties to deal with, but we’ll try with all our strength," he concluded, reflecting the determination and spirit of the Inter squad.
As the match approaches, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The atmosphere at San Siro is expected to be electric, with over 75,000 supporters cheering on their team. This match not only represents a chance for Inter to advance but also serves as an opportunity for redemption after their previous encounters with Barcelona in the Champions League.
In the first leg, both teams displayed incredible skill and tenacity, leading to a thrilling 3-3 draw. Each side had its moments, with Inter initially taking the lead before Barcelona fought back to equalize. The lack of an away goals rule means that this match is a true winner-takes-all scenario, heightening the tension and excitement for players and fans alike.
As we look ahead to the second leg, the focus will be on how each team adapts to the pressure. Inzaghi's tactical decisions, particularly regarding Martinez’s fitness and Dimarco’s positioning, will be critical in determining the outcome. Similarly, Barcelona's ability to cope with their injury woes and capitalize on their attacking opportunities will play a significant role in the match.
With both teams desperate for victory, it's clear that this encounter will be one for the ages. Football fans around the globe will be tuning in to witness the drama unfold as Inter Milan and Barcelona clash once again on the grand stage of the UEFA Champions League.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the excitement is palpable. Will Lautaro Martinez lead Inter to glory, or can Barcelona overcome their injury struggles to secure a place in the final? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: this match promises to deliver high-stakes action and unforgettable moments.
