•Thrilling 3-3 draw sets stage for explosive second leg at San Siro
Barcelona| A pulsating UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg between Barcelona and Inter Milan ended in a breathtaking 3-3 draw at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, leaving everything to play for in the return fixture in Milan.
The match was a rollercoaster of drama, featuring six goals, a record-breaking strike, standout individual performances, and moments of brilliance from emerging and seasoned stars alike.
Record-Breaking Start and Inter’s Early Dominance
The visitors stunned the Catalan faithful almost immediately, as Marcus Thuram opened the scoring just 30 seconds into the contest — the fastest goal ever recorded in a Champions League semi-final. Barcelona had barely settled into their rhythm when Inter struck again.
In the 21st minute, Dutch wing-back Denzel Dumfries sent shockwaves through the stadium with an audacious bicycle kick to double the Nerazzurri’s lead.
Inter appeared in full control, exploiting space and pressing high, but Barcelona, determined to keep their European dream alive, quickly regrouped.
Lamine Yamal Leads Barcelona’s Comeback
The fightback began with a moment of sheer individual brilliance from 17-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal.
The teenager sliced through Inter’s defense with dazzling footwork before calmly slotting the ball past Yann Sommer, becoming the youngest ever scorer in a Champions League semi-final at 17 years and 291 days.
Yamal’s goal galvanized the hosts. Minutes before halftime, Ferran Torres capitalized on a defensive lapse to bring Barcelona level, capping off a breathless opening 45 minutes and restoring belief among the home fans.
Second Half Drama and Continued Momentum Swings
The second half resumed with both sides pushing for the lead. Inter once again seized the advantage through Dumfries, who completed his brace with a well-timed header in the 58th minute.
His physicality and relentless energy on the flank posed ongoing problems for Barcelona’s backline.
However, Xavi Hernández’s men refused to relent. In the 72nd minute, Raphinha unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the area that deflected off Sommer and into the net, officially recorded as an own goal by the Swiss keeper, making it 3-3.
Standout Performers: Youth Meets Experience
Lamine Yamal was undoubtedly the star of the evening, contributing a goal, an assist, and nearly scoring a dramatic winner when his curling effort rattled the crossbar late in the game.
His mature performance on the grandest stage drew comparisons to club legend Lionel Messi.
For Inter, Denzel Dumfries was instrumental — both defensively and offensively — with two well-taken goals and relentless drive that kept Barcelona under pressure.
Marcus Thuram also impressed, not just with his record-breaking opener but through his constant movement and link-up play.
Statistical Overview
Barcelona dominated possession and attacking statistics, reflecting their control for large portions of the match:
- Possession: Barcelona 71.5% – 28.5% Inter Milan
- Shots on Target: Barcelona 9 – 3 Inter
- Corners: Barcelona 7 – 2 Inter
Despite the lopsided stats, Inter’s efficiency in front of goal and tactical discipline ensured they remained firmly in the tie.
Injury Setbacks Ahead of Decisive Second Leg
Both teams suffered key injuries that could influence the second leg. Barcelona defender Jules Koundé limped off with a suspected hamstring injury, while Inter’s Lautaro Martínez and Benjamin Pavard also picked up knocks, raising doubts about their availability for the return match at the San Siro.
All Eyes on Milan
With the aggregate score locked at 3-3, the second leg on Tuesday at San Siro is poised to be another thrilling encounter.
Both teams will aim to iron out defensive vulnerabilities while preserving their attacking verve in pursuit of a place in the final.
Whether the youthful exuberance of Barcelona or the tactical steel of Inter Milan prevails, one thing is certain — European football fans are in for another spectacular night.
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