On May 7, 2025, Inter Milan delivered a breathtaking performance in the UEFA Champions League semi-final against Barcelona, triumphing in a thrilling match that ended with a staggering score of 7-6 after extra time. This high-stakes contest took place at the iconic San Siro, where the atmosphere was electric as both teams battled fiercely for a spot in the final.
The match began with Inter Milan needing a strong showing, and they did not disappoint. Lautaro Martinez kicked off the scoring with a well-executed goal in the 21st minute, setting the tone for a dramatic encounter. Just before halftime, Hakan Calhanoglu converted a penalty, making it 5-3 on aggregate, and giving Inter a crucial advantage.
However, Barcelona, known for their resilience, responded with vigor in the second half. Eric Garcia leveled the score with a close-range finish in the 54th minute, followed by Dani Olmo, who added another in the 60th minute, putting Barcelona ahead 5-5 on aggregate. The tension escalated as Raphinha netted what seemed to be a decisive goal in the 87th minute, giving Barcelona a 6-5 lead. Yet, Inter refused to back down.
In a heart-stopping turn of events, Francesco Acerbi equalized in the first minute of added time, sending the match into extra time. The goal came after an impressive buildup, showcasing Inter's determination. Acerbi, typically a defender, displayed his attacking prowess by getting into the right position to finish off a cross from the right side.
As the match progressed into extra time, both teams were visibly exhausted, but the intensity remained high. It was Davide Frattesi who emerged as the hero for Inter, scoring the winning goal in the 99th minute, sealing a remarkable 7-6 victory for the Italian side. His goal was a result of a well-coordinated attack, demonstrating Inter's tactical discipline and teamwork.
After the match, Inter Milan's head coach, Simone Inzaghi, expressed his pride in his players' performance. "First of all, I have to congratulate Barcelona – a really strong team," Inzaghi stated. He emphasized the importance of his team's character and fighting spirit throughout the match, saying, "It took a super Inter – a round of applause for these guys, who put in two monstrous performances. I'm happy to be their coach. They gave me everything they had. It's right that they enjoy their success in this stadium."
Inzaghi also acknowledged the challenges his team faced during the match, stating, "We had some problems, but with heart, we went over every obstacle. We tried to play it with the qualities we have." His comments reflected not just pride, but also the strategic depth that Inter Milan displayed against a formidable opponent.
The match was not just a testament to Inter's skill but also to the remarkable goalkeeping of Yann Sommer, who made several crucial saves, including a stunning stop against Eric Garcia and five saves against the talented Lamine Yamal. Sommer's performance was pivotal, as he kept Inter in the game during critical moments, showcasing his experience and composure under pressure.
As the dust settles on this unforgettable encounter, Inter Milan now looks forward to the Champions League final on May 31, 2025, in Munich, where they will face either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal. This will be their second consecutive final, having previously lost to Manchester City in Istanbul in 2023.
With the victory over Barcelona, Inter has proven that they are a force to be reckoned with in European football. Their journey to the final has been marked by resilience and determination, qualities that Inzaghi has instilled in his squad. As they prepare for the final, the players and coaching staff will undoubtedly reflect on the lessons learned from this thrilling semi-final.
The stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable as fans eagerly await the showdown in Munich. Will Inter Milan claim their first Champions League title since 2010? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: they have already etched their names in the history books with this remarkable victory over Barcelona.
