Barça vs Inter delivered a six-goal Champions League thriller ending 3-3, with Lamine Yamal’s brilliance and dramatic momentum shifts lighting up the semifinal first leg.
Barça vs Inter Ends in Stunning 3-3 Champions League Semifinal Draw
Match Analysis in Brief
The first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinal between Barcelona and Inter Milan at the Olympic Stadium delivered a jaw-dropping 3-3 draw. From Marcus Thuram’s record-breaking opener within 30 seconds to Lamine Yamal’s magical performance, this was a match that had everything — goals, drama, flair, and future promise.
Inter Milan struck early and ruthlessly with two goals in the first 21 minutes, stunning the home crowd. But Barça, driven by 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, mounted a fierce comeback. The teenager scored a brilliant solo goal, hit the bar twice, and created several chances. Inter were lethal on set pieces, and despite losing Lautaro Martínez to injury, they kept the pressure on. Barça equalized three times, with Ferran Torres and Raphinha also playing key roles.
The draw sets the stage for an explosive second leg at the San Siro next week.
What Went Wrong for Barça?
Barcelona’s biggest issue was their defensive vulnerability, especially on set pieces. Inter scored two goals from corners, exploiting Barça’s high line and physical mismatch. As Raphinha put it, “Conceding so many goals at home is unacceptable.”
Barça also had a slow and sloppy start, with Ferran Torres admitting, “We came out sleepy and paid dearly for it.” Inter’s early goals gave them momentum, and Barça had to chase the game from behind.
While Yamal’s brilliance nearly saved the day, injuries to key defenders like Jules Koundé and lack of structure in transitions exposed Barça’s backline repeatedly. They’ll need to be far more organized and clinical away from home if they hope to reach the final.
What Went Wrong for Inter?
Inter Milan will rue missed opportunities and a disallowed late goal by Henrikh Mkhitaryan due to a marginal offside. Despite leading twice, they failed to hold on, conceding immediately after their third goal through a freak own goal from Sommer.
Simone Inzaghi’s side also struggled to contain Lamine Yamal, especially in the first half. “Yamal is a phenomenon born every 50 years,” Inzaghi admitted. Inter’s defensive adjustments came too late to fully neutralize him.
Losing Lautaro Martínez to injury also disrupted their attack in the second half. And while Inter looked solid on counters, they lacked control during Barça’s dominant spells.
What’s Next?
The second leg at San Siro is poised to be a classic. Inter will be buoyed by their away goals and physical dominance, but the fitness of Lautaro Martínez remains a major concern. Inzaghi’s side must tighten up defensively and finish chances if they hope to advance.
Barcelona, on the other hand, will look to ride Yamal’s momentum. With potential returns of Alejandro Balde and Robert Lewandowski, they could be stronger offensively. However, they must address their set-piece weaknesses and slow starts to stand a chance in Italy.
Both teams know what’s at stake: a place in the Champions League final.
And if the first leg is any indication, the return match promises more fireworks. Stay tuned with us!
Second Leg Possibilities
With the tie finely poised at 3-3, the second leg promises to be a blockbuster. Barcelona will look to capitalize on their home advantage, where their attacking flair often shines. Inter, on the other hand, will aim to exploit any defensive gaps and rely on their counter-attacking strength. Key battles in midfield and the fitness of star players like Lewandowski and Lautaro Martínez could prove decisive. Tactical adjustments, substitutions, and discipline will play a crucial role. Extra time or even penalties cannot be ruled out. One thing is certain—the return leg will be a thrilling, high-stakes showdown. Join us for more updates..