Inter Milan matches Champions League semifinal record with victory over Barcelona.
In a thrilling UEFA Champions League semifinal, Inter Milan triumphed over FC Barcelona with a dramatic 4-3 victory at the iconic San Siro, resulting in a record-equalling 7-6 aggregate score. The match unfolded in a captivating manner, showcasing resilience and tenacity from both teams, but it was Inter who ultimately sealed their place in the Champions League final.
The evening took a pivotal turn when Davide Frattesi, who entered as a substitute, netted the extra-time winner, supplementing an earlier equalizing strike from Francesco Acerbi in the dying moments of normal time. Acerbi’s last-minute goal marked a significant milestone, as it was his first European goal during his twentieth professional season, exemplifying the perseverance and dedication present within the Inter squad.
The match began with Inter taking control, as Lautaro Martinez opened the scoring in the 21st minute, capitalizing on a swift counterattack. Shortly before halftime, Hakan Calhanoglu converted a penalty, sending Inter into the break with a two-goal advantage. However, Barcelona demonstrated their formidable spirit in the second half. Within six minutes, they leveled the match with goals from Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo, demonstrating their resilience despite the early deficit.
As tension mounted, Barcelona appeared poised to secure victory with a close-range effort from Raphinha late in the match. Yet, Inter’s determination shone through as they surged forward in search of an equalizer. Denzel Dumfries provided the crucial assist to Acerbi, setting the stage for an exhilarating extra time.
In the extra period, Marcus Thuram’s inspiring run led to Frattesi’s expertly executed curling shot, igniting jubilation among Inter’s supporters. Inter Milan’s goalkeeper, Yann Sommer, played a pivotal role, making several crucial saves that were instrumental in maintaining their lead throughout the contest.
Inter Milan’s victory positions them favorably as they prepare to compete for their fourth Champions League title and their first in 15 years, following their loss to Manchester City in the 2023 final. With Barcelona now looking to refocus their efforts on La Liga, the competition remains fierce as they strive for domestic glory.
This semifinal showcased the beauty and unpredictability of football, have added another chapter to the storied history of both clubs. The match not only reflected the sport’s competitive spirit but also served as a testament to the unwavering dedication of players, coaches, and fans alike.
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