Barcelona and Inter Milan renew their European rivalry tonight in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final.
UEFA Champions League Semi-Final First Leg: Barcelona vs. Inter Milan
- Date: Wednesday, April 30, 2025
- Kick-off: 20:00 BST
- Venue: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona
Barcelona, under Hansi Flick, are aiming for their first final since 2015 and are in pursuit of a historic treble, having recently secured the Copa del Rey with a victory over Real Madrid.
Inter Milan, managed by Simone Inzaghi, are looking to return to the final after their 2023 appearance, despite recent domestic setbacks.
Team News
Barcelona:
- Out: Robert Lewandowski (hamstring), Alejandro Balde (hamstring), Marc Casado (injury)
- Doubtful: None reported
- Starting Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczesny continues in goal, with Marc-André ter Stegen available but not registered for the Champions League squad.
Inter Milan:
- Out: Benjamin Pavard (ankle injury)
- Doubtful: Marcus Thuram (recent injury return)
- Returning: Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Alessandro Bastoni are back from suspension.
Predicted Lineups
Barcelona (4-2-3-1):
Szczesny; Koundé, Cubarsí, Martínez, Martin; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Torres.
Inter Milan (3-5-2):
Sommer; Bisseck, Acerbi, Bastoni; Dumfries, Mkhitaryan, Calhanoglu, Barella, Dimarco; Martínez, Thuram.
Key Battles
- Midfield Control: The duel between Frenkie de Jong and Nicolò Barella could dictate the tempo of the match.
- Wing Play: Barcelona's wingers, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, will look to exploit spaces against Inter's wing-backs.
- Defensive Solidity: Inter's back three must contain Barcelona's dynamic attack, especially in the absence of Lewandowski.
Recent Form
Barcelona:
- Only one loss since Christmas.
- Recently won the Copa del Rey, defeating Real Madrid in extra time.
Inter Milan:
- Entering the match on a three-game losing streak without scoring.
- Despite domestic struggles, they eliminated Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.
Prediction
Barcelona's current form and home advantage position them as favorites. Inter's recent dip in performance, coupled with key injuries, may hinder their effectiveness.
Predicted Score: Barcelona 2-1 Inter Milan