FC Barcelona achieved a valuable draw (3-3) against Inter Milan in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals. The clash, held in Barcelona, was a true roller coaster in which Hansi Flick's team managed to recover from two deficits on the scoreboard, although they couldn't complete the comeback.
The start of the match was tough for the "culés". In just 25 minutes, Inter went 0-2 up thanks to a well-executed high press and errors in the "blaugranas'" ball distribution. They took advantage of the spaces in the defense to beat Szczęsny.
However, Barça reacted with composure and pride. First, it was Lamine Yamal, who once again appeared on a great European night with an individual play that ended with a precise shot for 1-2. Then, Ferran Torres, alert in the small area, pushed a lateral cross to equalize the score just before halftime.
Raphinha Responds with a Stunning Goal
In the second half, the script repeated itself. Inter took the lead again after a poorly defended corner kick. But the joy was short-lived for the Italian side: Raphinha, with a powerful left-footed shot from outside the area, scored the 3-3 just five minutes later.
Barça finished the match with better attacking sensations but aware that they need to improve at the back if they want to be in the Munich final. San Siro will deliver the verdict next week in a match expected to be just as open.
Flick: "We Can't Afford These Mistakes"
Hansi Flick was clear in the press conference. Although he appreciated the team's attitude and ability to react, the German coach also sent a firm message: "We've conceded too much. In this type of match, you can't give away goals and make it easy for the opponent to create chances."
The coach didn't hesitate to point out that there is a structural problem in defense that can't go unnoticed. "It's not the first time. Concentration has to be at its maximum for the full 90 minutes, and today we failed at key moments," he added.
Beyond the collective errors, the locker room is aware that there were individual performances below the desired level. One of the names that caused the most comments among the coaching staff was that of the young starting left-back, who had a difficult night.
It is Gerard Martín, who constantly struggled on his side. He lost several direct duels and left spaces that Inter exploited to launch their counterattacks. Although his offensive projection is promising, Flick believes he is not yet ready for matches of the highest European demand.
Martín had been gaining minutes in recent weeks due to Balde's absence. He could lose his spot in the return leg if the coach opts for a more experienced profile or even a change in the scheme to strengthen the defense.
To Correct Before the Return Leg
With the draw in hand and everything to play for in Barcelona, Barça is now focused on ironing out errors and recovering players. The ability to react and the away goals are an important asset, but if they want to advance to the final, Flick knows the team needs greater defensive solidity.
The challenge is clear: improve without losing the offensive identity. And that involves key decisions... including who will occupy the left-back position at Camp Nou.