Inter, Barca and the San Siro gives UCL classic in epic extra time climax

Inter Milan advanced to the UEFA Champions League final following an extraordinary contest against Barcelona at San Siro.

The Italian side emerged victorious after a 4-3 win in extra time, with Davide Frattesi scoring the decisive goal that broke Barcelona’s resistance in what proved to be one of the most thrilling European encounters this season.

The hosts established control early in the match, taking a two-goal advantage before half-time. Lautaro Martinez opened the scoring midway through the first period before Hakan Calhanoglu doubled their lead from the penalty spot after VAR intervened following Pau Cubarsi’s challenge on Martinez.

Barcelona mounted an impressive comeback after the interval, with Gerard Martin providing two assists. His first cross found Eric Garcia who reduced the deficit before another excellent delivery allowed Dani Olmo to equalise.

Raphinha appeared to have completed the turnaround late in normal time, but Francesco Acerbi dramatically levelled for Inter in stoppage time to force extra time.

The momentum shift proved crucial for Simone Inzaghi’s team, who capitalised immediately in the additional period when Frattesi struck what proved to be the winner.

The result means Inter will compete in their second Champions League final in three years, continuing their impressive European campaign in the 2024/2025 season.

Barcelona, hampered by defensive absences and featuring a recovering captain alongside Robert Lewandowski who was only fit enough for the bench, ultimately fell short despite their spirited second-half display.

The elimination is a significant disappointment for Hansi Flick’s side, who had seemed moments away from booking their ticket to Munich before Inter’s late revival turned the tie.