Inter Milan secured a historic victory over Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League semifinals, winning the match 3-2 and clinching the tie with a remarkable 7-6 aggregate score. The game was held at storied San Siro Stadium. Inter put forth a masterclass in both mental and technical fortitude, particularly as they regrouped following a especially dire stretch in the match.
The opening 45 showcased a surreal performance from Inter, who completely exhibited their range on the field and seized control from the jump. Lautaro Martinez got Inter in front in the 21st minute, taking advantage of a lightning-quick counter. Just before the half, Hakan Calhanoglu converted a penalty to double Inter’s advantage just before halftime. With that aim they entered the break with a two-goal benefit.
Inter went into the halftime break in a very favorable situation, up 2-0. After the break Barcelona really went for it. They briefly forced Inter to the edge by bringing the aggregate score even. Even after going down 2-0 at one stage in the final, Inter exhibited great mental strength.
That tipping point came in the last few minutes of regulation time. Then in the 99th minute Davide Frattesi sent a threatening volley on goal, cementing Inter’s lead. The third goal came after a brilliant run and assist from Marcus Thuram, continuing to showcase Inter’s attacking firepower. Frattesi was emotion personified after the match, dedicating the hard-fought victory to his team’s physiotherapists.
“I have to thank the physiotherapists because, in recent days, I was not well, I dedicate the victory to them. It’s incredible, I don’t know what to say. Tonight, the incredible happened.” – Davide Frattesi
Inter’s Swiss shot-stopper Yann Sommer was the hero of the first half. He produced a catalogue of incredible saves that denied Barcelona’s hopes of a miracle comeback. His offensive performance was crucial in making sure Inter stayed ahead and eventually won the match.
Thanks to this victory, Inter Milan will be playing the final in Munich. They will meet either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal. The team has shown incredible development over the course of the tournament and seems primed to take advantage of this momentum.
After Barca’s painful defeat to Bayern, Barcelona’s Eric Garcia lamented on his side’s misfortune, saying, “Football has been very cruel to us.” This feeling resonated throughout the team as they faced the reality of being knocked out after playing so well.
