Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi has expressed confidence in his team’s chances of defeating Barcelona tonight in the UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg, but emphasized the need to contain teenage sensation Lamine Yamal if they are to reach the final.
Yamal played a key role in Barcelona’s thrilling 3-3 comeback draw during the first leg at the Olympic Stadium, setting up an intense decider at the San Siro in Milan.
Speaking at a press conference, Inzaghi acknowledged the difficulty of neutralizing Yamal’s influence. “We need to keep him away from the ball, but that’s nearly impossible,” he admitted. “Whether we use double-marking or assign one player to shadow him, we must stay alert. His quick thinking and anticipation make him a dangerous opponent at just 17.”
Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni, who faced Yamal during the last European Championship, praised the Spaniard’s growth. “I’ve played against many top talents, but Yamal has improved immensely. His ability to create something from nothing, especially at his age, makes him one of the best I’ve ever faced,” Bastoni told Sky Sport.
Despite Barcelona’s attacking firepower—including the returning Robert Lewandowski and in-form Raphinha—Inzaghi believes Inter have the upper hand, especially with home support at the San Siro. The Italian side showed resilience in the first leg and ended a three-game losing streak with a weekend league win over Verona.
“We are aware of how strong Barcelona is,” said Inzaghi. “But I expect a great performance from Inter. We need to be focused and confident. The team believes in its ability to win, and there’s the right amount of tension heading into this game. It’s like a final, and we’re lucky to play it at home.”
Inter have no fresh injury worries, although key players Benjamin Pavard and Lautaro Martínez remain doubts. Pavard is recovering from an ankle injury, while Martínez’s condition will be assessed closer to kickoff. Inzaghi stressed that no risks would be taken: “If Lautaro’s not ready to start, playing him late won’t help.”
With a place in the Champions League final at stake, all eyes are on tonight’s clash in Milan.
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