Inter Milan have secured a dramatic place in the UEFA Champions League final after a pulsating 7–6 aggregate victory over Barcelona, capping one of the most memorable semi-final encounters in the tournament’s history.
The Italian giants looked set for elimination late in the second leg at the San Siro on Tuesday, trailing 3–2 on the night and facing a 6–5 deficit overall. But veteran defender Francesco Acerbi sparked a sensational comeback, rifling a last-minute equaliser into the top corner to send the match into extra time.
Inter then completed the turnaround through substitute Davide Frattesi, whose curling strike early in the added period sealed a remarkable victory and sent the home crowd into raptures.
It marks a second Champions League final appearance in three seasons for the three-time European champions, who lost narrowly to Manchester City in 2023. They will now face either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal at Munich’s Allianz Arena on May 31.
Tuesday’s game delivered drama in abundance, matching the 13-goal aggregate tally of Liverpool’s 2018 semi-final win over Roma and cementing its place in Champions League folklore.
Inter appeared to have taken control early, racing to a 2–0 lead on the night with goals from Lautaro Martínez and Hakan Çalhanoğlu, the latter converting from the spot just before halftime to extend their aggregate advantage to 5–3.
However, Barcelona, who had already fought back from two goals down in the first leg, responded with renewed purpose. Goals from Eric García and Dani Olmo brought them level on aggregate, before Raphinha struck what seemed to be a decisive blow in the 87th minute, capitalising on a rebound to make it 3–2 and 6–5 overall.
But Inter refused to relent. Acerbi’s equaliser deep into stoppage time forced extra time, where Frattesi’s left-footed finish ultimately secured victory.
Despite late chances for Barcelona, including efforts from Robert Lewandowski and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer produced key saves to preserve the lead.
The win places Simone Inzaghi’s men on the brink of European glory once again. Inter last lifted the trophy in 2010 under José Mourinho, having also won the European Cup in 1964 and 1965. They are now in contention for a historic double, sitting just three points behind Serie A leaders Napoli with three matches remaining.
For Barcelona, the heartache continues. The Catalan club, five-time European champions, were within minutes of reaching their first final since 2015.
However, despite an impressive domestic campaign that includes Supercopa and Copa del Rey titles, they will once again fall short on the continental stage.
Barça will now look to secure the La Liga title, holding a four-point lead over rivals Real Madrid. A win in Sunday’s El Clásico could go a long way toward confirming their 28th Spanish league triumph—and their second in six years.
