As the UEFA Champions League semi-final approaches its thrilling climax, Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni is rallying fans with an impassioned call to arms ahead of tomorrow's decisive second leg against FC Barcelona. Scheduled for May 6, 2025, at 21:00 CEST at the iconic San Siro Stadium, this match is poised to be a pivotal moment in the Nerazzurri's quest for European glory.
Following a gripping first leg that ended in a 3-3 draw at the Lluís Companys stadium, the stakes couldn't be higher for both teams. "We’re potentially two games away from lifting the Champions League trophy, and we will definitely give more than 110%, we will give 200%,” Bastoni declared during a pre-match press conference. His enthusiasm encapsulates the collective spirit of a team that has endured a challenging season yet stands on the brink of greatness.
Bastoni expressed immense pride in Inter's journey this year, stating, "I couldn't be more proud of our campaign this year. We are playing a lot of games, and we are always looking to be in the best shape and make our fans happy." He acknowledged the physical and mental toll that the season has taken on the players, emphasizing their commitment: "We've not had a day off for a while because we're so committed to doing well." This unwavering dedication is a testament to the team's resolve as they prepare for what could be a historic night.
Reflecting on the first leg, Bastoni noted the lessons learned from their performance against Barcelona. "We made some errors in our passing which could've led to more goalscoring opportunities," he explained. He believes that the insights gained will be crucial in crafting a strategy to overcome the Catalan giants. "We can improve a lot, and we will take our knowledge from the game last week to make life difficult for them," he added, showcasing the team's determination to rectify past mistakes.
Despite the high-pressure environment, Bastoni remains focused on the support of the fans. He urged them to create a vibrant atmosphere at San Siro, recognizing the crucial role they play in the team's success: "We will suffer at times tomorrow, like in the first leg, so we will need your support. It'll be 11 vs 11 on the pitch, so they will need to be as loud as possible. We will make sure to be as calm as possible to make the best decisions." This acknowledgment of the fans' impact highlights the symbiotic relationship between the players and their supporters, especially in such a high-stakes encounter.
Inter Milan's financial standing also came under discussion, with Bastoni revealing that the club ranks as the 14th highest in revenue across Europe. "We're two matches away from winning the Champions League, and this is proof of the work that the Coach and Club have done. I'm very proud, it's an honour to represent this club," he stated, reflecting on the club's aspirations and the hard work that has brought them to this stage.
When asked about the psychological aspects of the match, Bastoni addressed the notion that Inter might be prioritizing the Champions League over their Serie A campaign. "I've never heard the Coach say this, so no. We've played in two competitions for years, we're in the semi-final of the Champions League and in the fight in the league, it's not like this at all," he clarified. This response underscores the team's commitment to competing at the highest level across all fronts.
As for the leadership within the squad, Bastoni spoke highly of captain Lautaro Martinez, describing him as both a physical and moral leader. "Lauti is our leader on a moral and physical level because we know his importance on the pitch," he said. This recognition of team dynamics and leadership is vital as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
In terms of experience, Bastoni noted that he, along with teammates Pavard and Acerbi, have collectively made over 150 appearances in European competitions. He emphasized that this experience could be a pivotal advantage as they face a youthful Barcelona squad. "There are two different letters: there's the youthfulness of their team and the experience of ours. We will make anything possible on a moral and physical level tomorrow," he said, highlighting the balance of youth and experience within the teams.
As the match day approaches, the anticipation is palpable. Fans are eager to see if Inter can capitalize on their home advantage and secure a place in the Champions League final for the first time since 2010. With the players' commitment and the fans' unwavering support, the stage is set for a memorable clash that promises to be filled with drama and excitement.
Bastoni's rallying cry encapsulates the essence of what it means to compete at this level: passion, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. The journey to the final is within reach, and the Nerazzurri are ready to give everything they have to seize this golden opportunity.
