Barcelona and Inter Milan Battle to 2-2 Draw in First UCL Semifinal

Barcelona, Spain — FC Barcelona and Inter Milan drew 2-2 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal on April 30, 2025, at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. Both teams showcased their attacking skills, captivating fans with an electrifying match.

Marcus Thuram scored just one minute into the game, netting the fastest goal in semifinal history with a stunning heel flick, putting Inter ahead early. Denzel Dumfries doubled the lead with a volley in the 20th minute, leaving Barcelona reeling.

Barcelona responded with tenacity. Lamine Yamal, the prodigious 17-year-old, pulled one back in the 23rd minute after weaving through defenders, finding the net with a precise strike. Ferran Torres secured the equalizer just before halftime after a well-executed assist from Raphinha.

Yamal, who made his 100th appearance for Barcelona, expressed excitement about playing in such crucial matches. “We have a strong desire to reach the final and will give it our all. Everyone knows Inter is a tough team with a solid defense,” he said.

This match marked Inzaghi’s 50th Champions League game as manager. “Barcelona showed excellent organization and counter-attacking play. We are prepared for the challenge,” Inzaghi remarked, emphasizing the importance of discipline against Barcelona’s attack.

Barcelona, maintaining their perfect home record in this season’s competition, has now scored 37 goals in 12 matches. In comparison, Inter boasted the best defensive record, allowing only five goals throughout the tournament thus far.

This first leg saw both teams exchanging chances, with Barcelona dominating possession but struggling to break down Inter’s resilient defense. As the match wore on, the pace remained intense, promising an exciting return leg in Milan next week.

With the aggregate score at 2-2, both teams will head into the second leg in anticipation of what’s to come.