⚽ Inter Milan Triumphs Over Barcelona in Historic 7–6 Aggregate Thriller to Reach Champions League Final

Inter Milan Triumphs Over Barcelona in Historic 7–6 Aggregate Thriller to Reach Champions League Final

In one of the most exhilarating UEFA Champions League semi-finals in recent memory, Inter Milan emerged victorious over FC Barcelona with a 4–3 win after extra time in the second leg, culminating in a 7–6 aggregate scoreline. The match, held at San Siro on May 6, 2025, was a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing the resilience and determination of both teams.Al Jazeera+8The Sun+8The Guardian+8The Guardian

First Half: Inter's Dominance

Inter Milan started the match with intensity and purpose. Despite concerns over his fitness, Lautaro Martínez opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, capitalizing on a swift counter-attack. Just before halftime, Martínez was fouled in the box, leading to a penalty that Hakan Çalhanoğlu confidently converted, giving Inter a 2–0 lead at the break.AS USA+1Wikipedia+1

Second Half: Barcelona's Resurgence

Barcelona, refusing to bow out, returned from the interval with renewed vigor. Eric García reduced the deficit in the 53rd minute, followed by Dani Olmo's equalizer six minutes later. The Catalan side continued to press, and in the 86th minute, Raphinha's goal put them ahead 3–2, seemingly steering them towards the final.The Sun

Late Drama: Inter's Equalizer

As the match approached its conclusion, Inter's hopes were dwindling. However, in the third minute of stoppage time, veteran defender Francesco Acerbi found the back of the net, leveling the score at 3–3 and forcing the match into extra time.Al Jazeera+3UEFA.com+3Al Jazeera+3The Guardian

Extra Time: Frattesi's Decisive Goal

The momentum swung back to Inter in extra time. In the 98th minute, substitute Davide Frattesi scored the decisive goal, making it 4–3 on the night and 7–6 on aggregate. Despite Barcelona's efforts to respond, Inter's defense, bolstered by goalkeeper Yann Sommer's heroics, held firm.The SunAl Jazeera+9The Guardian+9Sky Sports+9The Sun+3Aktuelle Nachrichten | BILD.de+3Cadena SER+3

Yann Sommer: The Unsung Hero

Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer delivered a masterclass in goalkeeping, making several crucial saves throughout the match. His performance was instrumental in securing Inter's place in the final, earning him widespread acclaim and the Man of the Match award.

Controversies and Reactions

The match was not without controversy. Barcelona expressed dissatisfaction with several refereeing decisions, including a contentious penalty awarded to Inter and a potential second yellow card for Henrikh Mkhitaryan that was not given. Manager Hansi Flick and midfielder Pedri voiced their concerns post-match, calling for a review of the officiating.talkSPORT

Looking Ahead: The Final in Munich

With this victory, Inter Milan advances to their second Champions League final in three years. They will face either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal in Munich on May 31, 2025. The team, under the guidance of Simone Inzaghi, will be aiming to clinch their first European title since 2010.