Inter Milan booked their spot in the UEFA Champions League final after a pulsating 4-3 extra-time victory over Barcelona at San Siro on Tuesday, clinching a 7-6 aggregate win in the semifinal second leg. The Serie A giants will now prepare to face either Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain in the final at Munich’s Allianz Arena on May 31, aiming to secure their fourth European title.
Lautaro Martinez ignited the night with a clinical 21st-minute finish, capitalizing on a defensive error by Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong. Denzel Dumfries delivered a pinpoint cross for Martinez, who slotted home to spark celebrations among the home crowd. The Argentine striker then won a penalty just before halftime after being fouled in the box, with Hakan Calhanoglu calmly converting from the spot to extend Inter’s lead.
The match unfolded as a rollercoaster of momentum shifts, with Barcelona mounting a spirited comeback in the second half. However, Inter’s resilience in extra time sealed their progression, marking their first Champions League final appearance since 2023. The historic San Siro stadium, hosting its 20th UEFA semifinal, witnessed a night of high drama that underscored Inter’s European pedigree.
