Inter Milan`s pursuit of a second UEFA Champions League final in three seasons began with a demanding test against FC Barcelona, particularly needing to contain the young Spanish talent Lamine Yamal. While neutralizing Yamal proved difficult, the Nerazzurri successfully battled to a vital 3-3 draw in the first leg at Estadio Lluis Companys. As they prepare for the return leg in Milan, Simone Inzaghi`s side has once again demonstrated why they should not be underestimated. Despite recent domestic form struggles, which saw them lose the Serie A lead after consecutive losses, Inter remains a strong contender. It will be challenging, but Inter possesses key advantages that could see them reach the 2025 Champions League final in Munich on May 31. Here`s a look at the factors in their favor:
Inter`s Offensive Capability
Inter has consistently shown their attack can trouble any team globally. They have done so against various European opponents this season, including their recent clash with Bayern Munich and, notably, against FC Barcelona where they scored the first two goals of the 3-3 draw. Despite Barcelona`s comeback, spurred by Yamal`s brilliant play, Inter managed to score a crucial third goal through Dutch winger Denzel Dumfries, who also bagged a brace against Hansi Flick`s Bayern side previously.
Inter`s effective attacking transitions, often initiated by the dynamic midfield duo of Nicolo Barella and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, have repeatedly exposed vulnerabilities in opponents` high defensive lines, such as Barcelona`s under Flick. In the home second leg, Inter will likely create more scoring opportunities and must be clinical in front of goal. A significant challenge is the probable absence of captain Lautaro Martinez, who left the first leg injured. This puts pressure on strikers Mehdi Taremi and Marko Arnautovic to compensate for the potential loss of arguably Inter`s most influential player.
Potential Boost from Opponent Injuries
While Inter faces injury concerns with Lautaro Martinez and possibly Benjamin Pavard, Barcelona is also dealing with significant fitness issues that could impact their performance. Robert Lewandowski`s status for the return leg is uncertain, and Jules Kounde`s recent injury further weakens a defense that has not been at its most solid. Compounding their problems, Barcelona has a demanding La Liga fixture schedule. Unlike Inter, who hosts Hellas Verona at home, Barcelona must travel to face Real Valladolid on Saturday night. With only a four-point lead over Real Madrid and just four matches remaining, Barcelona has limited opportunity for player rotation ahead of the crucial Tuesday match, potentially leaving key players fatigued.
The Feeling of a Final Opportunity
There is a prevailing sense within the Inter squad that this Champions League campaign might represent a “last dance” for some players, a feeling not shared to the same extent by Barcelona. The club`s roster is expected to undergo substantial changes starting in the summer of 2025, a strategic direction guided by new American owners, Oaktree, aiming to lower the squad`s average age while maintaining competitiveness. This signals the potential conclusion of a successful era for the current group. However, this squad is seasoned by recent deep runs, including reaching the 2023 Champions League final where they narrowly lost to Pep Guardiola`s Manchester City. The powerful motivation to return to the final serves as a strong driving force for what could be the swansong for this experienced team.
