Injured stars return as Inter and Barcelona settle for thrilling draw

In a dramatic UEFA Champions League semifinal match held in Barcelona, Spain, Inter Milan drew 3-3 against FC Barcelona. The match took place on May 1, 2025, and marked a significant return for Inter’s Marcus Thuram and Denzel Dumfries, both of whom had been sidelined due to injuries. Thuram scored an impressive back-heeled goal right after the kickoff, while Dumfries showcased his skill by scoring two goals, marking a vital contribution to the team's performance following a troubling run without victories. This was the first leg of a two-legged semifinal, and the stakes were high as neither team wished to lose ground in the pursuit of UEFA Champions League glory. Both clubs exchanged goals, with Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres pulling Barcelona back into contention before Dumfries restored Inter’s lead, only for Raphinha to equalize late in the game. The match not only highlighted the importance of the players' returns for Inter but also showcased the rising talent of Barcelona's young star, Yamal, who left a lasting impression with his performance. The thrilling contest set the stage for the highly anticipated second leg in Milan on May 7, where both teams will seek a spot in the final. The outcome of this encounter underlines the unpredictable nature of knockout football, emphasizing the potential for injuries and player performance to significantly alter match expectations.