In a match that will be remembered as one of the most thrilling in UEFA Champions League history, Inter Milan secured their place in the 2025 final with a dramatic 4-3 extra-time win over Barcelona at San Siro, culminating in a 7-6 aggregate triumph.
First-Half Dominance by Inter
Inter Milan entered the second leg with a 3-2 deficit but quickly turned the tide. Lautaro Martínez opened the scoring in the 12th minute, leveling the aggregate. Hakan Çalhanoğlu then converted a penalty in the 38th minute, giving Inter a 2-0 lead on the night and a 5-3 advantage overall.
Barcelona’s Resilient Comeback
Barcelona responded with determination. Eric García’s header in the 50th minute and Dani Olmo’s goal in the 63rd minute brought the aggregate to 5-5. Raphinha’s strike in the 87th minute seemed to seal the comeback, putting Barcelona ahead 6-5 on aggregate.
Late Drama Forces Extra Time
In stoppage time, veteran defender Francesco Acerbi scored his first European goal, leveling the aggregate at 6-6 and forcing extra time.
Frattesi’s Decisive Extra-Time Goal
Substitute Davide Frattesi became the hero in the 99th minute, finishing a move set up by Marcus Thuram and Mehdi Taremi to give Inter a 4-3 lead on the night and a 7-6 aggregate advantage.
Controversy and Key Performances
The match was not without controversy. Barcelona’s Iñigo Martínez was involved in an alleged spitting incident with Acerbi, which went unnoticed by VAR. Goalkeeper Yann Sommer’s 14 saves across both legs were instrumental, earning him the player of the match accolade.
Looking Ahead to the Final
Inter Milan will face the winner of the Paris Saint-Germain vs. Arsenal semi-final in the Champions League final at Munich’s Allianz Arena on May 31.
This victory marks Inter’s second final appearance in three years, showcasing their resilience and tactical prowess under manager Simone Inzaghi.
