Barcelona fall short in Champions League semi-final classic against Inter Milan

Hansi Flick’s young Barcelona side eliminated in extra-time but reignite hopes for future Champions League glory.

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal battles for the ball with Inter Milan defender Federico Dimarco during the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg match at San Siro Stadium in Milan, on May 6, 2025. Photo by Piero Cruciatti/AFP

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Barcelona’s dramatic run in the UEFA Champions League came to a heartbreaking end on Tuesday night, as Hansi Flick’s revitalized side lost 4-3 after extra-time to Inter Milan at the San Siro, crashing out 7-6 on aggregate in one of the most thrilling semi-final ties in recent memory. Though Barcelona fall short in the Champions League, their journey this season has reignited belief that the Catalan giants are on the verge of returning to European dominance.

For the first time since 2019, Barcelona reached the semi-finals of Europe’s premier club competition. Their youthful team, led by coach Hansi Flick in his debut campaign, captivated fans across the continent with their energy, tactical maturity, and attacking flair. But against an experienced Inter Milan side, the Blaugrana’s dreams of returning to the Champions League final – which would have taken place in Munich – were painfully dashed.

Barcelona’s elimination was sealed in agonizing fashion. With just minutes remaining in regulation time and a 3-2 lead on the night, the Catalans were on the verge of booking a place in the final. But a stoppage-time equalizer from Francesco Acerbi took the match to extra-time, and Davide Frattesi’s strike in the added period sent Inter through.

The aggregate scoreline of 7-6 reflects the sheer drama of the tie, a rollercoaster battle that saw Barcelona claw their way back from a two-goal deficit only to fall short in the end. While they came agonizingly close, Barcelona fall short in the Champions League again – extending a trophy drought in Europe that stretches back to 2015.

Flick, despite the pain, was quick to stress that this team is building something substantial. “Of course something special has started,” he said after the game. “But we’re not at the end. We had a really huge defeat now. We’re not satisfied about that, but it’s normal. We have to stand up, fight until the end of the season—and for next season.”

A team transformed under Flick

Under Hansi Flick’s leadership, Barcelona have undergone a transformation. From a team languishing in the shadow of their past glories, this season’s squad has emerged with identity, character, and a future. Flick’s approach, centered on high-pressing, fluid attacking play and trust in youth, has rejuvenated the club after several painful European exits.

Lamine Yamal, just 17 years old, has become a sensation in the Champions League this season. Against Inter, he dazzled with his pace and creativity, although a moment of inexperience late in regulation — when he struck the post instead of taking the ball to the corner flag — proved costly. Alongside him, Pedri and Raphinha provided the backbone of a dynamic midfield, while 18-year-old Pau Cubarsí, another La Masia product, showed promise despite conceding a penalty in the first half.

“The players deserve respect,” Flick said, “but we are playing to win trophies.”

Barcelona’s youthful lineup, though short on experience, never lacked belief. For a team in the early stages of a rebuild, reaching the Champions League semi-finals marks a significant milestone. The defeat to Inter Milan was not the kind of humiliation suffered in past years — such as against Roma, Liverpool, or Bayern — but rather a painful step in a promising journey.

While Barcelona fall short in the Champions League, the disappointment has only served to fuel their ambition. In the aftermath of the match, players and staff vowed to return stronger. “We’ve given everything,” Yamal wrote on Instagram. “This year it wasn’t to be, but we’ll be back. Don’t have any doubt. We won’t stop until we leave this club where it deserves—on the highest rung.”

Veteran defender Eric Garcia echoed that sentiment. “We’ve gone beyond expectations,” he told Movistar. “We’re Barca, there are no transition years. We have to win all the trophies we can. Today we couldn’t do it, but the team comes out strengthened.”

Flick reinforced the message in his post-match remarks. “This defeat must wake up the hunger to win the title,” he said. “This is important for me.”

Barcelona now turn their focus to domestic competition, where they are still chasing silverware. With a four-point lead over arch-rivals Real Madrid and four matches remaining, the La Liga title is within reach. The club has already claimed the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey this season, and a league triumph would add gloss to a year of progress.

The test of Barcelona’s mental strength and resilience will come swiftly, as they prepare to face Real Madrid in a crucial La Liga showdown on Sunday. The match could decide the fate of the domestic title, and Flick knows the importance of lifting his players after the draining loss in Milan.

Real Madrid, who had the benefit of a full week’s rest following their 2-0 victory over Celta Vigo, will be eager to exploit any signs of fatigue in the Barcelona ranks. Barca, meanwhile, must regroup quickly from a night of heartbreak and find the strength to push forward.

Despite the physical toll of playing 120 minutes against Inter, the Catalans will hope the pain of falling short in the Champions League will be channeled into renewed determination on the domestic front.

Building a future beyond Messi

One of the key narratives throughout the season has been Barcelona’s quest to forge a new identity in the post-Lionel Messi era. For the first time since the legendary Argentine’s departure, there is genuine optimism surrounding the team’s direction. The blend of academy talent, shrewd tactical planning, and leadership from Flick has helped restore belief among supporters.

Although Barcelona fall short in the Champions League, this campaign may ultimately be remembered as the beginning of a new golden era. With a foundation of talented youth and a manager who commands respect, the club’s long-term prospects look bright.

Flick has been clear in his vision. “This is our job — to make this team better and better,” he told reporters. “We have a young team and we will improve.”

And improve they will. Even in defeat, Barcelona showed resilience, quality, and heart — traits that have been missing in past campaigns. The experience gained this season could prove invaluable in future European battles.

Barcelona’s Champions League journey may have ended in tears, but the pain of elimination comes with perspective. They are closer than ever to rejoining Europe’s elite, and the progress made under Flick cannot be overstated. While the headlines will read “Barcelona fall short in Champions League,” the story behind it is one of resurgence, growth, and the early stages of something potentially great.

The next chapter starts with El Clásico — and an opportunity to transform heartbreak into triumph.