Barcelona and Inter are set to clash in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals. Barcelona comes into the tie with momentum after securing the Copa del Rey trophy and maintaining their hopes for a treble this season. In contrast, Inter needs to bounce back following a defeat in the Coppa Italia and slipping from the top position in Serie A.
A significant concern for the Italian side is their recent performance, where they have conceded five goals and failed to score in their last three matches across all competitions. Striker Marcus Thuram was absent from the starting lineup in all these games due to a knock. His potential return against Barcelona would be a welcome boost. Partnering with Lautaro Martinez, their combined movement not only creates space for each other but also keeps the opposition defense alert due to their dangerous finishing capabilities.
Thuram did participate in training on Tuesday and is now anticipated to start. Given his importance to Inter`s attacking setup, his likely inclusion in the starting XI, even if he isn`t at 100% fitness, will provide the team with a lift, particularly when facing a high-calibre opponent like Barcelona.
Hansi Flick`s Barcelona side will be without Robert Lewandowski due to injury, yet they still possess plenty of attacking talent. Ferran Torres is expected to lead the line, and his interplay with Dani Olmo could cause problems for Inter. However, the main threat could originate from the wings, featuring Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. Raphinha has had an outstanding season, tallying 30 goals and 23 assists for Barcelona across all competitions, a performance level that could warrant consideration for top individual honors. Remarkably, the 17-year-old Yamal is also performing exceptionally well, with 14 goals and 24 assists this season.
Yamal`s production is extraordinary for a player of his age, and he continues to show improvement. While Lewandowski`s absence is notable, Inter`s tendency to allow numerous shots in the Champions League this season suggests Barcelona will have ample opportunities to score. A high-scoring encounter would likely favor the Spanish side, though Thuram`s potential participation could certainly alter the dynamic.
With the first leg being played in Spain, there will be added pressure on Inter to end their poor run of form. Their defensive stability faces further challenges with Benjamin Pavard set to miss out. While Barcelona`s high defensive line might present some chances for Inter, it may not be sufficient for the Italian side to keep pace with Barcelona`s offensive power.
Predicted Lineups
Barcelona XI: Wojciech Szczesny, Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Gerard Martin, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Raphinha, Ferran Torres
Inter XI: Yann Sommer; Yann Bisseck, Francesco Acerbi, Alessandro Bastoni; Denzel Dumfries, Nicolo Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu, Henrik Mkhitaryan, Federico Dimarco; Lautaro Martinez, Marcus Thuram
Benedict Kingsley