On Wednesday, Barcelona and Inter will clash in the Champions League semifinals, with Barcelona buoyed by their recent Copa del Rey triumph and aspirations for a treble. Meanwhile, Inter is eager to bounce back after a disappointing Coppa Italia exit and fall from the top in Serie A.
However, Inter’s recent form has raised concerns, as they have conceded five goals without scoring in their last three matches, all missing their star striker, Marcus Thuram, due to injury. He has returned to training and is expected to play against Barcelona, which could significantly enhance Inter’s chances. Alongside Lautaro Martinez, their combined attacking prowess needs to be taken seriously, creating space and putting immense pressure on defenses.
Despite the absence of Robert Lewandowski due to injury, Barcelona has options like Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo who could inflict damage on Inter’s defense, with wing players Raphinha and Lamine Yamal likely to be game-changers. Raphinha has had an impressive season with numerous goals and assists, while the 17-year-old Yamal continues to astound with his contributions.
With both teams set to face off in Spain, Inter must confront their recent struggles and the pressure to perform against a high-caliber opponent. Barcelona’s tactics may leave opportunities for Inter, yet the stakes are high for both sides.
Predicted Lineups
Barcelona XI: Wojciech Szczesny, Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Gerard Martin, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Raphinha, Ferran Torres
Inter XI: Yann Sommer; Yann Bisseck, Francesco Acerbi, Alessandro Bastoni; Denzel Dumfries, Nicolo Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu, Henrik Mkhitaryan, Federico Dimarco; Lautaro Martinez, Marcus Thuram
How to Watch
- Date: Wednesday, April 30
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, Barcelona, Spain
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Barcelona -165; Draw +300; Inter +425
