In a match that will be etched in the annals of UEFA Champions League history, Internazionale of Milan pulled off a stunning 4-3 victory over Barcelona in the second leg of their semi-final clash on May 6, 2025, securing a dramatic 7-6 aggregate win. With the stakes at their highest and the tension palpable at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, the match showcased a rollercoaster of emotions and skill that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The game began with Inter making an explosive start, taking the lead just 22 minutes in. Lautaro Martinez, who has been a pivotal figure for the Nerazzurri this season, scored his ninth Champions League goal, tapping in a well-placed cross from Denzel Dumfries. The home crowd erupted as Inter took control of the match early on.
However, the excitement was far from over. In a twist of fate, Inter was awarded a penalty late in the first half after a VAR review determined that Pau Cubarsi had clipped Martinez’s boot inside the box. Hakan Calhanoglu stepped up and confidently converted the spot-kick, doubling Inter’s lead and seemingly putting them in a commanding position.
But Barcelona, under the astute management of Hansi Flick, was not ready to back down. The visitors struck back in the second half with a pair of goals that turned the tide of the match. Eric Garcia volleyed home a stunning equalizer in the 54th minute, capitalizing on a brilliant cross from Gerard Martin. Just six minutes later, Dani Olmo headed in another cross from Martin, leveling the score at 2-2 and reigniting Barcelona’s hopes of advancing to the final.
As the match approached its climax, the drama intensified. Raphinha, who had been a constant threat throughout the match, scored in the 87th minute, seemingly sealing Barcelona’s place in the final with a 3-2 lead. Yet, just when it appeared that Barcelona had the upper hand, Inter responded with a moment of magic. In the third minute of added time, Francesco Acerbi, at the age of 37, scored a stunning equalizer, finishing deftly at the near post after a chaotic sequence of play. The stadium erupted once again, as the match headed into extra time tied at 3-3.
Extra time brought more drama, and it didn’t take long for Inter to find the back of the net again. In the ninth minute of extra time, Davide Frattesi, a substitute who had come on to make an impact, scored a brilliant goal, giving Inter a 4-3 lead and ultimately sealing their place in the final.
This thrilling encounter was not without controversy. Barcelona players, including Lamine Yamal, expressed their frustration with referee Szymon Marciniak’s decisions, particularly regarding the late equalizer and a potential penalty for themselves. Despite the heated exchanges, the match showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, culminating in a historic clash that saw a total of 13 goals across the two legs, tying a Champions League record for the most goals in a two-legged knockout tie.
Inter Milan’s victory marks their second Champions League final appearance in three seasons, with eyes now set on either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal, who will battle it out in the other semi-final. Meanwhile, Barcelona, despite the heartbreak of elimination, will shift their focus to the upcoming El Clasico against their arch-rivals Real Madrid, aiming to maintain their lead at the top of La Liga.
As the dust settles on this unforgettable semi-final, both teams have much to reflect on. For Inter, it’s a moment of triumph that solidifies their status as a European powerhouse, while Barcelona must regroup and channel their energy into upcoming challenges. The narrative of this epic tie will resonate for years to come, a testament to the thrilling unpredictability of football.
In the aftermath of the match, Hansi Flick reflected on his team’s efforts, stating, “I’m proud of my team, we gave everything, and sometimes it’s like that. We have to accept it, and we start again next season.” His words encapsulate the spirit of competition, as both clubs look to bounce back stronger.
As for Inter, coach Simone Inzaghi will be keen to harness this momentum as they prepare for the final, eyeing a fourth Champions League title. The road to glory continues, and fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating what comes next.
