Inter Milan Face Barcelona Semifinal Test Amid Late-Season Collapse

Posted : 29 April 2025

Inter Milan approach their Champions League semifinal clash with Barcelona in the midst of a difficult period, as a run of poor form threatens to derail what once seemed like a promising season. Since securing their place in the last four, Inter have suffered three consecutive defeats without scoring a single goal, a slump that has seen them drop behind Napoli in the Serie A title race and exit the Italian Cup following a heavy 3-0 loss to city rivals AC Milan.

Their most recent defeat—a lackluster 1-0 home loss to Roma—highlighted the team's lack of energy and creativity, both on the pitch and in the stands, where a subdued San Siro crowd mirrored the players’ performance.

Manager Simone Inzaghi acknowledged his team’s struggles, noting their inability to capitalize on attacking opportunities due to a lack of sharpness. He emphasized the need for a mental and physical reset ahead of their trip to Barcelona, hoping that a change in momentum could reignite their campaign.

This current run marks the first time since Claudio Ranieri’s tenure in 2012 that Inter have lost three straight matches without finding the net. Ironically, Inter had rebounded from a similar loss to Roma back in 2022 by defeating Barcelona, a win that contributed to their journey to the Champions League final last season.

Inter’s preparations for the semifinal haven’t been helped by scheduling issues, as their league match against Roma was postponed to avoid conflicting with the funeral of Pope Francis, reducing their recovery time. Defender Benjamin Pavard remains doubtful due to an ankle injury, and striker Marcus Thuram’s availability is uncertain.

In contrast, Barcelona enters the fixture on a high, having just won the Copa del Rey with a third straight victory over Real Madrid. Despite their current struggles, Inter’s players maintain that they’re not afraid, with wing-back Carlos Augusto expressing confidence in their ability to achieve something special.

Central to Inter’s hopes is captain Lautaro Martinez, whose performances in Europe have been critical to their progress. With seven Champions League goals in 2024, Martinez has often been the difference-maker, notably against Bayern Munich in both legs of the quarterfinal.

However, recent matches have seen him appear fatigued and isolated without proper support. Inter now face the challenge of rediscovering their form quickly, as a once-promising season teeters on the brink of unraveling.

Inter Milan Face Barcelona Semifinal Test Amid Late-Season Collapse

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