Inter Milan achieved a remarkable feat on Tuesday night, overcoming Barcelona in a thrilling Champions League semi-final that ended 4-3 in favor of the Italians, resulting in a 7-6 aggregate score. The victory, sealed by Davide Frattesi's stunning goal in the 99th minute, sends Inter to the final, where they will face either Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain at the Allianz Arena later this month.
The match, played under a relentless downpour at the iconic San Siro, was a rollercoaster of emotions. Inter, who had been trailing by two goals with just two minutes left in regular time, seemed destined for elimination. Raphinha had given Barcelona the lead with his goal, making it 3-2 on the night and 6-5 on aggregate. However, in a dramatic twist, Francesco Acerbi equalized for Inter in the second minute of added time, forcing the match into extra time.
Frattesi's goal, his seventh of the season, was not just crucial; it marked one of the most significant moments of his career. The midfielder's strike sent the home crowd into a frenzy, as the packed stadium erupted with joy. This victory not only secured Inter's place in the final but also salvaged their season, which had seen their treble hopes dashed after losing ground in Serie A to Napoli and being eliminated from the Italian Cup by AC Milan.
Simone Inzaghi's squad demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the match. Lautaro Martinez opened the scoring for Inter with a brilliant goal, followed by Hakan Calhanoglu's penalty just before halftime, putting the hosts 2-0 up at the break. However, Barcelona responded strongly in the second half, with Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo scoring in quick succession to turn the tide in their favor.
Yann Sommer, Inter's goalkeeper, played a pivotal role in keeping his team in the game. He made several crucial saves, including a stunning stop from Eric Garcia during a lightning-fast counter-attack by Barcelona. Sommer's heroics continued in extra time when he denied Lamine Yamal with a fingertip save, preserving Inter's lead as they fought to maintain their advantage.
As the final whistle blew, the atmosphere in the San Siro was electric. Inter's players celebrated with their fans, who had witnessed one of the most thrilling matches in Champions League history. The victory marks Inter's second Champions League final appearance in three years, and the team is eager to capture their fourth title, having last lifted the trophy in 2010.
In the aftermath of the match, players expressed their thoughts on the upcoming final. Yann Sommer, who was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance, acknowledged the significance of his extra time save, stating, "For sure, one of the most important saves of my career. It gave us energy. We believed after this. We said now we have to do it, have to bring it home."
Mateo Darmian, who also played a key role in the match, shared his excitement about reaching the final. He said, "Everyone wants to lift the trophy. I think it will be difficult, but we will try because we deserve to be there." Darmian, who previously experienced a Champions League final loss to Manchester City in the 2022/23 season, is determined to help his team achieve success this time around.
The final, set to take place at the Allianz Arena in Munich, promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with Inter eager to prove themselves against either Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain. The anticipation is palpable as fans await the outcome of the other semi-final, which will determine Inter's opponent.
In a season filled with ups and downs, this victory has revitalized Inter Milan's campaign, and the players are ready to seize the moment. With their eyes firmly set on the trophy, they aim to make history once again and solidify their place among Europe's elite.
As the dust settles on this epic semi-final, one thing is clear: Inter Milan is back in the Champions League final, and they are hungry for glory.
