Seven-goal thriller sees Inter Milan advance to the UEFA Champions League final

While football, especially on big occasions, has been criticised in recent years for a lack of freedom and expressionism, Inter Milan v Barcelona reminded us of why we love the beautiful game.

A fascinating spectacle just over a week ago at the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium, the tie was well-poised at 3-3 after the first leg, suggesting both sides may err on the side of caution with the scores level.

Instead, an enthralling display littered with quality, grit and a reluctance to lose.

Former Newcastle centre forward and commentator Alan Shearer was in agreeance, saying:

It gave us everything. From start to finish last week to this week, everything about this semi-final has been pure entertainment.

It was Inter who took the upper hand at the San Siro, as Barcelona’s high line presented an opportunity for Denzel Dumfries to break in behind. The Dutchman squared it to Lautaro Martinez, and the striker could not miss. 1-0 Inter.

Our '2 Goals Ahead Early Payout Offer' was activated when Hakan Calhamoglu converted from the spot after Pau Cubarsi conceded a controversial penalty.

Barca looked down and out at half time. 2-0 down against a side accustomed to defending leads.

Nonetheless, Hansi Flick’s side were seemingly unfazed. Full-backs combined as Gerard Martin found Eric Garcia, who expertly fired home in style.

The former Manchester City defender had the chance to level things up, but Yann Sommer’s heroics ensured his side retained the lead, for a matter of moments.

Martin would once again find space on the left-hand side, delivering a perfectly weighted cross to Dani Olmo, heading in to take the scores level. 2-2.

Raphinha, having caused little threat throughout the game, was threaded through in the 87th minute. His initial effort was saved, but he was able to follow it up and find the bottom corner on his weaker right foot. Comeback complete. Right?

Francesco Acerbi had something to say about that. Just seconds after Lamine Yamal had a chance to confirm Barca’s spot in the UEFA Champions League final, hitting the post, the Italian central defender found the roof of the net. Pandemonium at the San Siro. Extra-time awaited.

Eight minutes into extra-time, super-sub Davide Frattesi found the bottom corner after an incredible run by Marcus Thuram.

A 4-3 lead for Inter, and Barcelona wouldn’t respond. Despite the relentless efforts of Yamal, the Italian side’s grit proved too much.

A second UEFA Champions League final in three years for Inter Milan, while Barca’s wait for a sixth UEFA Champions League trophy goes on.

You can see all the latest UEFA Champions League odds on our dedicated UEFA Champions League hub.

Ellis Statham

• FC Barcelona
• Inter Milan
• UEFA Champions League
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