In a thrilling UEFA Champions League semi-final clash held at the iconic San Siro on May 6, 2025, Inter Milan edged out FC Barcelona with a dramatic 4-3 victory after extra time. This match not only secured Inter's spot in the final but also echoed the legendary tales of Italian football, reminiscent of the famous "Game of the Century" between Italy and West Germany.
The match began with an electric atmosphere as both teams entered the field, having drawn 3-3 in the first leg. Inter, managed by Simone Inzaghi, fielded a strong lineup featuring Lautaro Martinez, who had recovered from a muscle injury, while Barcelona, under Hans-Dieter Flick, welcomed back Robert Lewandowski to the bench.
Inter struck first in the 21st minute when Lautaro scored, capitalizing on a perfectly timed assist from Dumfries. The home crowd erupted as Lautaro found the net with ease, marking his ninth goal in this Champions League season. Just before halftime, Inter doubled their lead through a penalty converted by Hakan Calhanoglu after Lautaro was brought down in the box by Cubarsi, making it 2-0.
However, the second half told a different story. Barcelona emerged from the break with renewed vigor, and their persistence paid off quickly. Eric Garcia found the back of the net in the 54th minute, bringing Barcelona back into the game. Just six minutes later, Dani Olmo leveled the score at 2-2, sending shockwaves through the Inter camp.
As the match progressed, Barcelona continued to press, and Raphinha scored what seemed to be a decisive goal in the 87th minute, putting the visitors ahead 3-2. Yet, Inter's resilience shone through in the dying moments of the game. In a dramatic turn of events, Francesco Acerbi scored a late equalizer in the 93rd minute, forcing the match into extra time and igniting the hopes of the home fans once more.
In the first period of extra time, it was Davide Frattesi who became the hero for Inter, scoring in the 99th minute to give his team a 4-3 lead. The tension in San Siro was palpable as the players fought tooth and nail for every ball. Inter's goalkeeper, Sommer, made crucial saves, particularly against Lamine Yamal, who was threatening to equalize yet again.
The match concluded with a roar from the crowd as Inter secured their place in the Champions League final, where they will face the winner of the other semi-final between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal. This victory marks Inter's second final appearance in three years, a testament to their growth under Inzaghi's management.
Throughout the match, the attendance reached a staggering 75,504, generating a gross income of 14,675,293 euros. The atmosphere was electric, with fans from both sides creating a vibrant spectacle. The match was officiated by Polish referee Szymon Marciniak, who had a challenging task managing the heated exchanges on the pitch.
Both managers expressed their thoughts post-match. Inzaghi praised his team's fighting spirit, stating, "We showed great character, especially after going behind late in the game. This team never gives up, and today we proved that once again." On the other hand, Flick acknowledged the missed opportunities, lamenting, "We had chances to win, but we need to be more clinical in front of goal. Inter took their chances, and that made the difference."
This match will be remembered not just for the scoreline but for the sheer drama and passion displayed by both teams. It highlighted the unpredictability of knockout football, where fortunes can change in an instant. As Inter prepares for the final, they will take immense confidence from this victory, knowing they can overcome adversity and rise to the occasion.
As the football world turns its eyes to the final in Munich, fans are left wondering: Can Inter Milan clinch the prestigious trophy once more, or will they face another formidable opponent in the quest for European glory? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the journey to the top is never a straight path.
