The highly anticipated Champions League clash between Barcelona and Inter Milan for a semifinal spot sees both teams entering with strong league form. Barcelona will rely on their possession-based style and home advantage at Camp Nou, while Inter Milan has demonstrated resilience and tactical skill. A key concern for Inter is the fitness of striker Marcus Thuram, who last played in the Champions League quarterfinal against Bayern Munich. Meanwhile, Barcelona's treble hopes remain alive after securing their first trophy of the season with an extra-time Copa del Rey final victory against Real Madrid, despite recent form dips, including a Champions League quarter-final defeat to Borussia Dortmund.
Ahead of Wednesday's Champions League semifinal first leg against Barcelona, Inter Milan's primary concern is the fitness of striker Marcus Thuram, who last played in their quarterfinal second leg against Bayern Munich. Meanwhile, Barcelona, fresh off a Copa del Rey victory against Real Madrid and aiming for a historic third treble despite recent form dips, will be looking to exploit any Inter Milan weaknesses.
Inter Milan's treble hopes collapsed last week with a 3-0 Coppa Italia semi-final loss to AC Milan. Their Serie A title chase is also faltering after a late defeat to Bologna and a subsequent 1-0 home loss to Roma.
Predicted XIs:
Barcelona (4-2-3-1): Szczesny; Kounde, Araujo, Cubarsi, Martin; Pedri, De Jong; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Torres.
Inter Milan (3-5-2): Sommer; Pavard, Acerbi, Bastoni; Darmian, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Martinez, Taremi.
Despite potential fatigue after their Copa del Rey win, Barcelona will seek to leverage momentum against a struggling Inter Milan side in the first leg. Barcelona are favored to win at the Estadi Olympic Lluis Companys, given Inter's inconsistent Serie A form and weak away record. While Inter boasts individual talent, their collective performance is unreliable. Although Lautaro Martinez poses a threat, Barcelona’s typically solid defense will be difficult to break down. Xavi will likely focus on exploiting Inter's defensive vulnerabilities in wide areas, and Barcelona are expected to dominate possession and create opportunities. Inter will probably attempt to frustrate and counter-attack, aiming for a crucial away goal. Barcelona's superior squad depth and home advantage should ultimately prevail, suggesting a likely, but not necessarily comfortable, 2-1 or 1-0 victory.
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