The UEFA Champions League semi-final tie between Inter Milan and Barcelona is finely poised after an thrilling 3-3 draw within the first leg, a recreation many followers are already calling one of the thrilling in current UCL reminiscence.
Whereas each groups gave supporters a spectacle, the outcome possible favours Inter barely, with the second leg to be performed at their residence floor, the enduring San Siro.
Inter go into the return fixture boasting a formidable 16-match unbeaten run at residence within the Champions League (13 wins, 3 attracts). They’ve additionally constructed a strong observe file when enjoying Spanish golf equipment on residence turf, recording 12 wins, 10 attracts and simply 4 losses.
In opposition to Barcelona specifically, the Italian giants have held their very own, successful twice, drawing thrice, and shedding solely as soon as at residence within the UCL.
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Though their current general kind has been a bit inconsistent with only one win of their final six matches, Inter did decide up a morale-boosting 1-0 victory over Verona final weekend.
That outcome saved their Serie A title goals alive and will give them some momentum going into this important conflict.
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Barcelona, in the meantime, are nonetheless chasing a number of trophies this season. They’ve already lifted the Spanish Tremendous Cup and the Copa del Rey, and are additionally within the working for the La Liga title.
On the weekend, they confirmed grit by coming from behind to beat already-relegated Actual Valladolid 2-1. Now, they face the problem of constructing it to their sixth Champions League last.
To take action, the Catalan facet should overcome a tricky file in semi-final away legs within the UCL, having gained simply two of 15 such video games (2 wins, 2 attracts, 11 losses).
Nonetheless, their current European away kind affords hope. They’ve gained 4 of their final 5 UCL away matches, and so they’ve tasted victory in three of their final six visits to Italy.
Prediction
Objectives are more likely to be on the menu once more in Milan, as 15 of Barcelona’s final 16 Champions League matches have seen over 2.5 objectives scored. With each side recognized for attacking aptitude, one other goal-filled encounter might be on the playing cards.
Greater than two objectives will possible be scored on this second leg conflict.
Gamers to observe
Inter striker Marcus Thuram opened the scoring within the first leg, and curiously, six of his final seven membership objectives have both kicked off or completed the scoring.
Barcelona’s younger star Lamine Yamal additionally netted within the first leg identical to he did of their earlier UCL match in opposition to one other Italian facet. 4 of his 5 Champions League objectives this season have come earlier than the 60-minute mark.
Sizzling stat
Barcelona have saved a comparatively clear disciplinary file in Europe this season, choosing up only one yellow card per Champions League match on common.
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With a lot at stake and each groups full of expertise, all eyes will likely be on the San Siro as Inter and Barcelona battle for a spot within the last.