Barcelona and Inter Milan Clash in Champions League Semifinals

BARCELONA, Spain — FC Barcelona will face Inter Milan in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals on April 30, 2025, marking a highly anticipated rematch 15 years after their last semi-final confrontation.

The previous encounter ended dramatically with Inter progressing to the final amid significant controversy, led by coach José Mourinho. This time, despite Inter’s struggles with three consecutive losses, Barcelona enters as the favorite, finding itself motivated after a successful campaign.

Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick, has acknowledged the pressure of keeping the team in peak condition as they aim for multiple trophies this season. “The victory in the Copa del Rey has given us a lot of positive energy,” he stated. Meanwhile, Inter’s coach Simone Inzaghi noted his team’s need for resilience, saying, “We are tired, but we need more heart and determination right now.”

For the match, Barcelona will be without star striker Robert Lewandowski, who remains sidelined with injury. Flick has opted for a starting lineup that features Wojciech Szczęsny in goal, a defensive backline of Jules Koundé, Íñigo Martínez, and Pau Cubarsí, while Pedri and Frenkie de Jong will manage the midfield.

Inter will field their XI without Benjamin Pavard, but will rely on Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martínez to lead their offense. Inzaghi emphasized respect for Barcelona’s storied history, saying, “Playing against a team like Barcelona demands great concentration and tactical bravery.”

Historically, Barcelona holds the edge in their head-to-head Champions League record against Inter, winning six out of twelve encounters. The match will kick off at 3:00 PM ET at Estadi Lluís Companys Montjuïc, with that tension building as Barcelona hopes to secure a lead before the return leg in Milan.