The stage is set for the UEFA Champions League semifinals as Barcelona hosts Inter Milan in the first-leg match on Wednesday. Barcelona is in excellent form after defeating Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final and is currently unstoppable on their home pitch. Inter arrives for Wednesday`s match needing a significant boost after being shut out in three consecutive league matches, which saw them drop from first place in the Serie A standings.
Kickoff from Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium in Barcelona is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET. According to the latest odds, the home side, Barcelona, are the -160 favorites on the 90-minute money line, with Inter listed as the +380 underdogs. A draw is priced at +320, and the over/under for total goals scored is set at 3.5.
Expert Predictions
Before making any wagering decisions, it`s beneficial to consider expert analysis. Here are some predictions for the Barcelona vs. Inter Milan match:
Raphinha to score or assist (-125): The Brazilian forward is under increased pressure following the injury to Barcelona`s leading striker, Robert Lewandowski. Raphinha recorded seven shots in the recent Copa del Rey final, with three on target. A similar level of attacking threat could well result in a goal or assist against a potentially tired Inter defense.
Barcelona to score in both halves (+125): Hansi Flick`s team has demonstrated their attacking capability by finding the back of the net in two of their last three matches across all competitions. Furthermore, they have scored in three of their last four games played on home soil. This trend supports the prediction of Barcelona scoring in both halves of the semifinal first leg.
Barcelona on the money line (-150): The Blaugrana boast an impressive record of being undefeated in their last 15 consecutive home matches across all competitions. In contrast, Inter failed to score in their most recent away fixture against Bologna. While the Nerazzurri will undoubtedly push for offense after their recent scoring drought, their defense will face a formidable challenge in containing Barcelona`s potent attack. Experts note Barcelona possesses creative midfielders and prolific attackers, including Ferran Torres, Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Dani Olmo, and Frenkie de Jong. Despite Inter`s potential for solid defense, the consensus is that Barcelona`s current momentum and attacking prowess will be too significant for Inter to overcome.
