Inter Milan Edge Out Barcelona in a Champions League Classic: A Night to Remember at the San Siro
In what can only be described as a Champions League epic, Inter Milan and FC Barcelona delivered a semifinal showdown that will echo through football history. Over two electrifying legs, these European giants traded blows, producing a 7–6 aggregate thriller that saw Inter book their place in the 2025 Champions League Final.
A First-Leg Firestorm in Barcelona
The drama began at Camp Nou, where Barcelona and Inter Milan shared a chaotic 3–3 draw. With end-to-end action, goals from Raphinha, Pedri, and Lewandowski for Barça, and replies from Lautaro Martínez and Denzel Dumfries for Inter, the tie was delicately balanced but set the tone for the firestorm to come.
San Siro: A Stage for Legends
In the second leg, the San Siro witnessed one of the great European nights. Inter roared into the lead with early goals from Lautaro and Çalhanoğlu, putting the home side in firm control. But Barcelona responded with championship resolve — Eric García and Dani Olmo brought the visitors level before Raphinha’s strike edged them ahead on aggregate.
As the match drifted into stoppage time, a stunned San Siro held its breath — until Francesco Acerbi smashed home a dramatic equalizer to send the tie into extra time.
And it was in the 112th minute that substitute Davide Frattesi etched his name into club folklore, curling in the winner and sending the Nerazzurri into ecstasy.
Heroics Between the Posts
Yann Sommer, Inter’s veteran goalkeeper, was arguably the man of the match across both legs. With 14 saves — including a last-gasp denial of Lamine Yamal — the Swiss international was a wall that refused to break.
The Bigger Picture
While Barcelona walk away with pride and the Copa del Rey in hand, it’s Inter Milan who continue their Champions League dream. Simone Inzaghi’s side will now prepare for a showdown in Munich, awaiting the winner of the other semifinal between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal.
A Rivalry Renewed
This clash added another unforgettable chapter to the storied history between Barcelona and Inter Milan a rivalry that now stands at:
Barcelona wins: 6
Inter wins: 4
Draws: 5
With 40 goals scored across 15 encounters, this matchup never disappoints.
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