The 2024/25 UEFA Champions League semi-finals delivered a spectacle of footballing drama, showcasing the pinnacle of European club competition. Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain emerged victorious from their respective ties, setting the stage for a thrilling final in Munich on May 31.
Inter Milan vs. Barcelona: A Semi-Final for the Ages
Inter Milan and Barcelona engaged in a two-legged encounter that will be remembered as one of the most exhilarating in Champions League history.
First Leg: A Six-Goal Thriller
The first leg at Barcelona's Olympic Stadium ended in a 3-3 draw. Inter struck early, with Marcus Thuram scoring in the opening minute and Denzel Dumfries adding a second in the 21st minute. Barcelona responded through the prodigious Lamine Yamal, who netted a superb goal to reduce the deficit. Ferran Torres scored in the 38th minute to make it 2-2. Dumfries scored his second goal of the game to make it 2-3, however Barcelona quickly replied through a Yann Sommer own goal following a thunderous strike from Raphinha that hit the bar.
Second Leg: Extra-Time Heroics
The return leg at San Siro was equally dramatic. Inter took a 2-0 lead through goals from Lautaro Martínez and Hakan Çalhanoğlu. Barcelona mounted a comeback, with Eric García and Dani Olmo scoring to level the match. Raphinha then gave Barcelona the lead, but Francesco Acerbi's stoppage-time goal forced extra time. In the 99th minute, Davide Frattesi scored the decisive goal, securing a 4-3 victory on the night and a 7-6 aggregate win for Inter. Goalkeeper Yann Sommer's crucial saves preserved the lead, sending Inter to their second Champions League final in three years.
Paris Saint-Germain vs. Arsenal: Clinical Efficiency
Paris Saint-Germain showcased tactical discipline and clinical finishing to overcome Arsenal with a 3-1 aggregate scoreline.
First Leg: Dembélé's Decisive Strike
In the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, PSG secured a 1-0 victory courtesy of an early goal from Ousmane Dembélé. The French side managed the game effectively, limiting Arsenal's opportunities and taking a crucial advantage back to Paris.
Second Leg: Sealing the Deal
At the Parc des Princes, PSG weathered early pressure from Arsenal before Fabián Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi scored to extend their lead. Bukayo Saka pulled one back for Arsenal, but PSG's defense, marshaled by Gianluigi Donnarumma, held firm to secure a 2-1 win on the night and a 3-1 aggregate triumph.
The Final: Inter Milan vs. Paris Saint-Germain
The Champions League final in Munich will feature Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, two clubs with contrasting histories in the competition. Inter, three-time European champions, seek to add another title to their illustrious history. PSG, aiming for their first Champions League crown, will look to cap off a season of growth under their current management.
Both teams have demonstrated resilience, tactical acumen, and individual brilliance throughout the tournament. The final promises to be a captivating contest between two of Europe's elite clubs.
