Simone Inzaghi’s team is set to face either Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain at the end of this month in Munich, where they believe they have a strong chance to be crowned kings of Europe for the fourth time. This comes after an incredible match that saw them emerge victorious.
On Tuesday, Davide Frattesi propelled Inter Milan into the Champions League final with an extra-time winner, securing a thrilling 4-3 victory over Barcelona and a 7-6 win on aggregate. The Italy midfielder scored in the 99th minute during a heavy downpour in Milan, igniting wild celebrations among the packed San Siro crowd.
This victory was essential for Inter’s season, especially after their hopes of a treble vanished when they defeated Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals. They’ve had a challenging time in Serie A, losing top spot to Napoli, who are favorites to win the domestic title, and were knocked out of the Italian Cup by AC Milan just two weeks ago.
However, defeating Barcelona has rejuvenated their spirits as they prepare for a second Champions League final in three years. Frattesi’s winning goal, his seventh of the season and arguably the most significant of his career, was remarkable because it seemed like Inter was on the brink of elimination.
With just two minutes left in regulation, Raphinha had completed a comeback for Barcelona, giving them a 3-2 lead. But Francesco Acerbi shocked the stadium, scoring off Denzel Dumfries’ cross during injury time to equalize and send the match to extra time.
Barcelona had been the stronger side in the second half, coming back from a 2-0 deficit with two goals from Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo, both assisted by Gerard Martin. Inter’s Yann Sommer played a crucial role in keeping them in the game, making outstanding saves, including one on a Barcelona counter-attack that could have sealed their fate.
Inter Milan’s goalkeeper in the extra time again made a miraculous save from Lamine Yamal right before Acerbi’s equalizer. Inter managed to maintain their composure and held off Barcelona’s advances, finally unleashing a roar of victory from their fans at the match’s conclusion.
