Inter Milan is set to host FC Barcelona in the highly anticipated second leg of the 2024/2025 UEFA Champions League semifinal. The clash will take place on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at the iconic San Siro Stadium in Milan, Italy, with kickoff scheduled for 3:00 PM ET. This matchup follows a thrilling first leg that ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw in Catalonia, leaving everything to play for in this decisive encounter.
Fans across the United States can catch all the action live on various platforms, including CBS, fuboTV, and Paramount+. The stakes are high as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the Champions League final, and the atmosphere in Milan is expected to be electric.
Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martínez is hoping to lead his team to victory against the Spanish giants, aiming to build on the momentum from their first leg performance. In that match, strike partner Marcus Thuram made headlines by scoring just seconds after kickoff, showcasing Inter's attacking prowess. However, Lautaro's availability for the second leg is in question after he suffered a thigh muscle injury that forced him to leave the field at halftime during the first leg.
Inter coach Simone Inzaghi expressed concerns about Lautaro's fitness, noting that such injuries typically require 10 days to two weeks for recovery. "It will be very difficult to have Lautaro back in time," Inzaghi admitted last week. Despite these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope for Inter fans. Lautaro trained in the gym on Sunday, May 4, and is expected to return to group training on Monday, May 5, raising optimism about his potential return to the pitch.
Inzaghi is also considering the return of defender Benjamin Pavard, who missed the first leg due to an ankle injury. Pavard was instrumental in Inter's quarterfinal victory against Bayern Munich, and his presence could bolster the defense significantly. "We will decide together with the medical staff, together with the players themselves, because they will be the ones who will have to tell me their own feelings," Inzaghi stated regarding the fitness of his players.
As the match approaches, Lautaro shared a cryptic message on Instagram, posting a photo of himself working out with the caption featuring emojis of an hourglass and a battery, suggesting he is determined to recover in time. Thuram, who has been a standout performer this season, commented on Lautaro's post with an alarm clock emoji, indicating his support for his teammate's recovery.
Lautaro is not just any player; he is Inter's record goalscorer in the Champions League, with an impressive tally of 20 goals, including eight this season alone. Across all competitions, the 27-year-old has scored 21 goals and provided six assists, proving to be a pivotal figure in Inter's campaign.
The first leg showcased the resilience of both teams, with Barcelona also demonstrating their elite status in European football. They fought back to equalize three times, and their ability to perform under pressure makes them a formidable opponent. As the return leg looms, Barcelona will be keen to capitalize on any defensive lapses from Inter and secure their place in the final.
With both teams boasting a wealth of talent and experience, the stage is set for a gripping encounter. The tactical battle between Inzaghi and Barcelona's coach will also be a focal point, as both strategists look to outmaneuver each other in this high-stakes clash.
As anticipation builds, fans are encouraged to mark their calendars, set their alarms, and prepare for what promises to be an unforgettable night of football. The match will kick off at 3:00 PM ET, with additional viewing options available for fans across different time zones.
In the lead-up to the match, discussions surrounding the implications of this semifinal clash have dominated social media and sports news outlets. Many are wondering if Inter can leverage their home advantage to overcome Barcelona, a team that has shown remarkable resilience and skill throughout the tournament.
As both teams finalize their preparations, the excitement is palpable. Will Lautaro make a miraculous recovery to lead Inter to victory? Can Barcelona continue their quest for glory in the Champions League? One thing is for certain: this match is not to be missed.
In conclusion, the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinal between Inter Milan and FC Barcelona is shaping up to be a thrilling encounter that could go either way. Fans will be glued to their screens as they witness two of Europe's giants battle it out for a place in the final.
