Inter’s win over Barcelona described as ‘philosophical dispute’ by Italian press | OneFootball

Italian media term Inter’s victory over Barcelona as a ‘philosophical dispute’ between two contrasting football ideologies.

According to a report by La Repubblica via FcInter1908, Inter’s win over Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final with a 7-6 scoreline on aggregate was the triumph of Simone Inzaghi’s style of play against Barca’s tactics, which have been near-flawless throughout the entire season.

The Nerazzurri started the match well, scoring twice with Lautaro Martinez and Hakan Calhanoglu delivering when needed. However, Inter lost their groove in the second half and Hansi Flick’s men started dominating proceedings as they masterminded a turnaround courtesy of goals from Eric Garcia, Dani Olmo and Raphinha. The Brazilian’s strike in the 87th minute dampened the atmosphere inside San Siro as the hosts looked at the exit from the Champions League.

Despite the setbacks, Inter piled on pressure and they found the gap in the Barca defence in the final minutes of added time when 37-year-old Francesco Acerbi slotted the ball into the net from Denzel Dumfries’ cross to force extra time. Inzaghi’s men had renewed hope and replenished vigour as they shrugged off their second-half blues to take Barcelona head on later. Davide Frattesi’s 99th-minute strike sent Inter to seventh heaven as the final goal of this clash was scored.

Inzaghi and Flick have two distinct ways of fielding their respective sides and both managers commanded an entertaining contest, but by a fine margin, the Italian triumphed. Apart from reaching the Champions League final, Inter made a statement with a moral victory over a high-flying Barcelona outfit.

Trambak Bhattacherjee | GIFN