BARCELONA – If Inter wants to secure their spot in the UEFA Champions League final for the second time in three years, they needed to maintain solid defense against FC Barcelona and the brilliant 17-year-old Lamine Yamal in the initial leg at the Estadio Lluis Companys. While challenging, the Nerazzurri fought hard to bring back a 3-3 draw ahead of the second leg semi-final, set to unfold on Tuesday (available on Paramount+).
Simone Inzaghi’s squad has demonstrated their resilience as contenders, despite recent setbacks that saw them drop from the Serie A leadership following consecutive defeats. Securing a place in the Champions League final in Munich on May 31 remains plausible. Here’s why:
Inter’s Quality in Attack
Inter’s offensive capabilities pose a threat to any competitor globally. They showcased this prowess against various teams this season, especially against Bayern Munich and most recently against FC Barcelona, evidenced by their netting the first two goals in the 3-3 draw on Wednesday. Despite Barcelona’s resurgence, thanks to Yamal’s exceptional performance, Inter scored again with Dutch winger Denzel Dumfries, who also excelled against Hansi Flick’s side.
Player of the Match @Inter_en discusses Denzel Dumfries’s impressive showing against Barcelona
Inter’s transition attacks led by midfielders Nicolo Barella and Henrikh Mkhitaryan created numerous challenges for Barcelona’s high defensive line, with Inter ready to exploit any vulnerabilities in the return leg. Yet, the absence of captain Lautaro Martinez due to injury amplifies the pressure on forwards Mehdi Taremi and Marko Arnautovic.
Injuries Can Benefit the Nerazzurri
While Lautaro’s injury, alongside Benjamin Pavard’s uncertainty for the second leg, poses a hurdle, Barcelona also wrestles with injuries that could significantly impact their performance. Robert Lewandowski’s status remains questionable for the return leg, with Jules Kounde becoming the latest addition to their injured list amid a shaky defensive scenario. With a mere four-point lead over Real Madrid and only four matches left, Barcelona’s weekend fixtures will allow little rotation, ensuring a tightly contested environment as both teams prepare for pivotal matches.
The Last Dance?
Unlike Barcelona, some parts of Inter’s current lineup may be facing their final chance together as roster changes loom in the summer of 2025. According to president Giuseppe Marotta, significant adjustments are expected, especially with new American owners Oaktree seeking to rejuvenate the squad while maintaining competitiveness. This squad, which has gleaned experience from previous seasons, including their loss to Manchester City in last year’s Champions League final, is motivated to capitalize on this potential last opportunity.
