Inter Milan has made a dramatic leap to the Champions League final, delivering a stunning upset against Barcelona in a semi-final regarded as one of the finest ever. The pivotal moment came from midfielder Davide Frattesi, who, known more for his midfield work than scoring, netted the decisive goal in extra time. This thrilling match ended 4-3 on the night, with Inter advancing 7-6 on aggregate over two legs.
In the 99th minute, Frattesi coolly slotted the ball past Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, igniting a wave of euphoria among the San Siro crowd. His celebration sparked an exuberant response from teammates and fans alike, capturing the essence of the night.
The tie had begun with Inter taking control, leading 2-0 at halftime following goals from captain Lautaro Martinez and Hakan Calhanoglu, who converted a penalty. However, Barcelona, featuring rising star Lamine Yamal, rallied back with three consecutive goals courtesy of Eric Garcia, Dani Olmo, and Raphinha, stunning the home side.
Raphinha’s 87th-minute goal appeared to spell defeat for Inter, but 37-year-old defender Francesco Acerbi scored in stoppage time, forcing extra time and keeping hopes alive. The first leg had ended in a 3-3 draw, showcasing the intense nature of this semi-final.
Commentators highlighted the chaotic nature of the two matches, especially the initial penalty awarded to Inter, which stirred debate among fans and pundits alike. Despite initial scepticism, the penalty was confirmed as Martinez was fouled while skillfully shielding the ball from his opponent.
With this latest triumph, Inter Milan has now set its sights on the final, where they will face the winner of the PSG vs. Arsenal clash, with PSG holding a slender 1-0 lead from the first leg. The final will take place in Munich on June 1, and Inter are eager for redemption, having lost to Manchester City in the previous year’s final.
Mark Bosnich, a noted commentator, noted the unexpected nature of Inter’s success in this demanding tie. He praised the tactical prowess of their management and the players’ resilience, emphasising their fighting spirit which led them to turn the tide against Barcelona. This semi-final will be remembered as a landmark achievement for Inter Milan, showcasing both their tactical skill and unwavering determination.