In a thrilling UEFA Champions League semi-final at the Giuseppe Meazza, Inter Milan edged out FC Barcelona 4-3 after extra time, securing their place in the final against Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal. The match, held on May 6, 2025, was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess and resilience.
Barcelona, under the guidance of manager Hansi Flick, entered the match with high hopes after a dramatic 3-3 draw in the first leg. However, they faced a daunting task as they were without key players such as Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde. Despite these absences, the Catalans were determined to fight for their ninth Champions League final appearance.
From the onset, the match was charged with intensity. Lautaro Martínez, who had been a doubt due to injury, made a significant impact early on, scoring the opening goal in the 12th minute. After a defensive lapse from Dani Olmo, Martínez capitalized on a swift counter-attack, finishing off a pass from Denzel Dumfries to put Inter ahead 1-0.
The situation worsened for Barcelona when Pau Cubarsí fouled Martínez in the box, leading to a penalty converted by Hakan Çalhanoglu just before halftime, extending Inter's lead to 2-0. Despite dominating possession, Barcelona struggled to find a way past a resolute Inter defense.
After the break, Barcelona came out with renewed vigor. Eric García initiated the comeback with a stunning strike in the 53rd minute, bringing the score to 2-1. The momentum shifted dramatically as Gerard Martín, who had been a constant threat down the left flank, assisted Dani Olmo for the equalizer in the 59th minute.
With the score tied at 2-2, Barcelona continued to press forward. Raphinha completed the comeback in the 87th minute, scoring after a rebound from Sommer's initial save, making it 3-2 for the visitors. The Barcelona fans were ecstatic, believing they were on the verge of securing a place in the final.
However, Inter had other plans. In a dramatic turn of events, Francesco Acerbi scored in the 94th minute, capitalizing on a defensive mistake from Ronald Araújo, which sent the match into extra time with the score level at 3-3. The late equalizer was met with disbelief from the Barcelona bench, who felt the goal was controversial due to potential foul play.
As the extra time unfolded, both teams displayed fatigue but remained relentless. Just minutes into the second half of extra time, Davide Frattesi scored for Inter, taking advantage of a defensive lapse to put his team ahead 4-3. This goal proved to be the decisive moment, as Barcelona pushed desperately for another equalizer.
Barcelona's young star, Lamine Yamal, came close to leveling the score again but hit the post in the 90+2 minute, while Sommer made crucial saves to deny Lewandowski and Yamal in the dying minutes of the match. The Inter goalkeeper's performance was pivotal, earning him acclaim as the hero of the night.
Despite their valiant efforts, Barcelona's hopes of a historic treble were dashed as they succumbed to Inter's tactical discipline and clinical finishing. The final whistle confirmed Inter's victory, and they celebrated a hard-fought win that sends them back to the Champions League final for the first time since 2023.
"Indignant at the robbery suffered," former Barcelona director Freixa expressed his frustration over the controversial nature of the match. He noted that Barcelona had only been ahead for a mere five minutes over the entire two-legged tie, highlighting the uphill battle they faced throughout the series.
As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, Barcelona must regroup and focus on their La Liga campaign, where they maintain a four-point lead over Real Madrid. The loss stings, but with a talented squad led by Flick, they will undoubtedly look to bounce back stronger in the seasons to come.
Inter Milan, on the other hand, will prepare for their final showdown, hoping to secure their fourth Champions League title, a feat that has eluded them since their triumph in 2010. With a solid performance against Barcelona, they have proven their mettle and resilience, setting the stage for an exciting finale in Munich.
