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Inter Milan advanced to the 2025 UEFA Champions League final after a dramatic 4-3 win over Barcelona, securing a 7-6 aggregate triumph. The Italian champions faced fierce competition from Barcelona in a match full of comebacks and unforgettable moments. Following a 3-3 draw in the first leg in Spain, Barcelona’s spirited effort in Milan came up just short. Despite trailing 2-0 at halftime, the match culminated in an intense extra-time victory for Inter, leaving fans in ecstasy.

Inter’s Rollercoaster Journey to the Final

From the start to the finish, the Champions League semi-final between Inter Milan and Barcelona was filled with relentless action. The first leg in Barcelona had already set the stage for a thrilling tie with a 3-3 draw. In Milan, Barcelona’s efforts were once again met with resilience from Inter, but it was a rollercoaster ride of emotions. By halftime, Barcelona were trailing 2-0, and 5-3 overall on aggregate. But they showed their trademark resilience, mounting a comeback to take the lead 6-5.

Raphinha’s 87th-minute goal gave Barcelona their first aggregate lead, but the drama didn’t stop there. Inter’s Francesco Acerbi, at the age of 37, scored his first-ever European goal, pulling the game level and sending it into extra time. The match was tied at 6-6 on aggregate, leaving everything to play for in the final minutes.

In extra time, substitute Davide Frattesi became the hero. The midfielder smashed in the decisive goal, which proved to be the winner. Inter’s 4-3 victory ensured their place in the final, where they will meet either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal, with PSG holding a slim 1-0 advantage in their ongoing tie.

A Record-Breaking Semi-Final: Goals Galore

The semi-final clash between Inter and Barcelona went down in history as one of the highest-scoring Champions League matches. The combined total of 13 goals tied the record for the most goals scored in a semi-final, equaling the 7-6 aggregate scoreline in the 2018 clash between Liverpool and Roma. For football fans, it was a spectacle that delivered on every front.

Speaking on the thrilling nature of the match, Alan Shearer, who was present for Prime Video’s coverage, said: “Who could have expected this? We hoped for quality, but we witnessed sheer brilliance. Thanks to Inter and Barcelona for giving us two unforgettable nights of football.”

Defensive Fragility Meets Determined Attack

Inter Milan had relied heavily on defensive discipline throughout their Champions League campaign, with goalkeeper Yann Sommer keeping seven clean sheets before the semi-finals. However, Barcelona tested their defensive resolve like never before. Sommer was bombarded by 22 shots, with 10 of them on target. Despite conceding three goals in the first half alone, Inter’s defense held firm, refusing to buckle under the pressure.

“We were heading out,” said Shearer, “but they found a way. They absolutely earned their spot in the final.” After all the tension and drama, Inter’s players could only celebrate in relief, as they knelt to the ground when the final whistle blew, having held on to secure their victory.

A Historic Opportunity: Can Inter Finally Bring the Trophy Back to Italy?

Inter Milan’s victory over Barcelona has set the stage for a potential historic achievement. It has been 15 years since Inter last lifted the Champions League trophy under José Mourinho, when they defeated Bayern Munich in the 2010 final. Since then, no Italian club has won the prestigious trophy, but now, Inter have a chance to change that.

Before the tournament began, analysts ranked Inter as third favorites, behind the heavyweights Real Madrid and Manchester City. However, with both of those teams eliminated, Inter now sit at the top of the pile, and their path to glory is clearer than ever. With this win, they return to the final for the second time in just three seasons.

Inter’s Impressive Run Continues

The journey has been a testament to Inter’s strength and resilience. Their unbeaten run at the San Siro in the Champions League now stretches to 16 matches, marking their longest such streak in Europe since the 1980s. “It was a phenomenal night,” said head coach Simone Inzaghi, reflecting on the performance of his players. “We shared it with our fans, our club, and our families. The players produced something remarkable. We delivered four incredible matches against elite teams—Bayern in the quarter-finals and Barcelona here. Celebrating it all with our fans makes it even better.”

Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries was outstanding over both legs against Barcelona, contributing two goals and three assists. “Another crazy night! Seven goals… just unbelievable,” said Dumfries after the final whistle.

Frattesi’s Moment of Glory

Davide Frattesi’s extra-time strike was the crowning moment of a match that had everything. The 24-year-old midfielder had experienced emotional highs and lows throughout his career, but his decisive goal marked a personal milestone. “After Munich, I didn’t think I’d ever feel those emotions again,” Frattesi admitted. “But that’s football’s magic. It’s the story of my career. I always believe first and give up last.”

As Inter now prepares for their final clash in Munich on May 31, the whole of Italy will be hoping for a historic return of the Champions League trophy. For Inter Milan, their moment of glory may be just around the corner.

Inter Milan’s unforgettable semi-final victory has sent them to the 2025 UEFA Champions League final. Their incredible comeback, coupled with thrilling goals and performances, made for a memorable spectacle. With a potential date with destiny in Munich, the Italian champions will be aiming to bring the coveted trophy back to Italy for the first time in 15 years.