On May 6, 2025, Inter Milan delivered a breathtaking performance that will echo through the annals of Champions League history, defeating Barcelona 4-3 in an epic semi-final clash at the San Siro, securing a remarkable 7-6 aggregate victory. This match, a true showcase of drama and skill, saw both teams push their limits, producing a spectacle that captivated fans worldwide.
Inter's journey to the final was marked by resilience and determination, as they faced a formidable Barcelona side that was eager to claim a treble this season. The Nerazzurri struck first in the 21st minute when Lautaro Martinez found the net, thanks to a well-placed assist from Federico DiMarco. Martinez capitalized on a defensive mistake by the young Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi, slotting the ball into an empty net after a clever setup from Denzel Dumfries.
As the first half progressed, Inter continued to assert their dominance. Hakan Calhanoglu doubled the lead just before halftime, converting a penalty awarded after a VAR review confirmed that Cubarsi had fouled Martinez in the box. Calhanoglu confidently sent Wojciech Szczesny the wrong way, sending the home crowd into raptures.
However, Barcelona was far from finished. The second half began with a resurgence from the Catalan giants. Eric Garcia scored in the 54th minute, volleying home a cross from Gerard Martin to bring Barcelona back into contention. Just six minutes later, Dani Olmo leveled the score at 2-2, heading in another superb delivery from Martin, demonstrating Barcelona's trademark attacking prowess.
With the momentum shifting, Raphinha completed the comeback for Barcelona in the 87th minute, giving them a 3-2 lead on the night and seemingly sealing Inter's fate. Yet, in a twist that left fans and players alike in disbelief, 37-year-old Francesco Acerbi, who had been pushed forward in desperation, scored a dramatic equalizer in the 93rd minute. His goal, a powerful finish from Dumfries' low cross, forced the match into extra time, igniting the San Siro crowd once more.
In the first period of extra time, Davide Frattesi emerged as the hero for Inter. In the 99th minute, he netted the decisive goal, showcasing remarkable composure to finish a move initiated by Marcus Thuram and assisted by Mehdi Taremi. Frattesi's strike sent the home fans into a frenzy, as they sensed victory was within reach.
Despite Barcelona's attempts to claw back, including two crucial saves from Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer against Lamine Yamal, the Nerazzurri held firm. The match concluded with Inter's players celebrating a hard-fought victory, marking their second Champions League final appearance in three years.
Simone Inzaghi's side will now prepare to face either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal in the final, set to take place in Munich later this month. This victory not only ended Barcelona's hopes of a treble but also solidified Inter's status as one of Europe's elite, showcasing their ability to thrive under pressure.
Reflecting on the match, Frattesi expressed his disbelief, stating, "My heart was beating out of my chest, it’s really incredible. There will never be another match like that. It’s crazy." Inzaghi praised his team's spirit, saying, "We had some problems but, with heart, we went over every obstacle."
As Inter Milan gears up for the final, they carry with them the momentum of this unforgettable night, a testament to their resilience and skill in the face of adversity. The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the Champions League season, and fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating what promises to be another classic encounter.
