Inter 7-6 Barcelona, the greatest two-legged semi-final of all time? - Football Weekly
May 7, 2025
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The thrilling semi-final clash between Inter Milan and Barcelona is the talk of the town, with Inter's unexpected triumph after a heart-stopping 7-6 aggregate victory. Key performances and dramatic moments are dissected, celebrating what many are calling a historic knockout tie. The conversation also humorously touches on the fashion choices of managers amidst the excitement of matches. Tactical insights on Arsenal's approach against PSG add a strategic layer to the discussion, while Nottingham Forest's Champions League hopes are analyzed with genuine concern.
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Quick takeaways
Inter Milan's impressive pressing strategy and tactical discipline allowed them to triumph over Barcelona in a thrilling Champions League semi-final.
Key contributions from players like Jan Sommer and Francesco Acerbi exemplified Inter's resilience, showcasing the blend of experience and youthful talent in their squad.
The record-setting 13 goals across the tie not only captivated fans but also marked a historic moment in football history.
Deep dives
Inter's Unexpected Triumph
Inter Milan overcame expectations to reach the Champions League final, delivering a thrilling performance against Barcelona. The match showcased Inter's impressive pressing strategy, allowing them to go two goals up by halftime despite initially being dominated. Barcelona mounted a comeback, with standout moments including Garcia's brilliant volley, but Inter managed to respond with sheer determination. The match culminated in a dramatic equalizer from Acerbi in injury time, exemplifying Inter's fighting spirit that ultimately led them to victory.
Thrilling Match Dynamics
The back-and-forth nature of the match kept fans on the edge of their seats, demonstrating a clash of styles between Barcelona's possession-based game and Inter's counterattacking approach. Although Barcelona dominated possession and shot counts, Inter's resilience and tactical discipline helped them endure pressure, creating a captivating spectacle. Despite looking fatigued in the second half, Inter managed to capitalize on key moments and secure essential goals, ultimately flipping the momentum back in their favor. This relentless pursuit of victory highlighted the squad’s experience, even as they faced an impressive Barcelona side.
Heroic Performances from Key Players
Key players like Jan Sommer and Francesco Acerbi were instrumental in Inter's success during the tie. Sommer's exceptional goalkeeping was pivotal, making crucial saves throughout both legs, earning him significant recognition for his contributions. Acerbi's unexpected heroics, punctuated by his last-minute equalizer, underscored the team's never-give-up attitude and determination. Additionally, the younger players like Frattesi and Turam showcased their talents, demonstrating that Inter is not only reliant on experienced veterans but also on emerging talents.
A Historic Tie
The match was not only thrilling but also historic, with commentators and fans reflecting on its significance in football history. With 13 goals over the two legs, the affair was full of high-quality moments, leaving observers questioning if such an entertaining tie had ever occurred before. The energy in San Siro enhanced the environment, with supporters playing a crucial role in lifting the team during moments of fatigue. The exhilarating atmosphere and electric performances from both sides made it a memorable clash destined to be talked about for years to come.
Looking Forward: The Champions League Final
As Inter prepares for the Champions League final, reflections on their challenging journey highlight the team’s evolution under Simone Inzaghi. The upcoming final will allow Inter to prove their growth and resilience on the European stage, especially after reaching the final just two years ago. The squad's blend of experience and youthful energy suggests they are well-equipped to handle the pressures of a final match. With anticipation building, Inter looks to capitalize on their recent success, aiming for glory against a formidable opponent.
Max Rushden is joined by Barry Glendenning, Jonathan Fadugba and Mark Langdon as Inter beat Barcelona 7-6 on aggregate after an absolutely thrilling two legged tie in the Champions League. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/footballweeklypod
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