These were probably the most exciting two match semifinals in the history of CL: 13 goals scored, late come-backs, incredible saves, and fantastic goals. A classic that will not be forgotten by most fans and I can only imagine the joy felt by the home crowd, wish we could experience that kind of elation anytime soon and wonder if asshole Gerry even watched the match or knew that it was being played.
If I had to rate Inter players I would say Dumfries, Sommer, Acerbi, And Thuram were tops. Dumfries has been world class, improved dramatically since first couple of seasons, Sommer made one of the best saves I've ever seen on Yamal's shot that commentators thought was a deflection but replays showed a finger tip touch by the keeper. Acerbi, that many here think of as fodder, has been amazing both at Lazio and Inter, a player that Inzaghi was smart to bring along. At 37 was still going strong after playing 130 minutes or so. Same with Thuram who was actually in doubt coming off an injury but played his heart out and at the end was running on fumes.
I hate Inter but admire how hard the players fight for the jersey, not a lazy one among them as opposed to our club full of drama queens and primadonnas. Lots of the credit goes to Inzaghi who has brought discipline and order to the squad and to Marotta for hiring him. Replacing Conte was not an easy task but Simone has done even better with his second UCL final in 3 seasons and I think they will win it this time.
I must confess that once Acerbi tied it I rooted for Inter to win, maybe my Italian bias kicked in but at the end of the day believe they deserved it more. The first half was all Inter, the second Barca, but overtime the nero-azzurri were better. Incredible stamina, including Barella and Hakan, their athletic staff must be out of this world. I really liked Frattesi's goal, not rushing, measuring his shot with his off foot hitting the far corner perfectly, and Acerbi who looked like a top striker. The unselfishness of Dumfries who didn't shoot but provided a perfect assist to Lautaro.
It was a win for Inter but also a triumph for football, if one likes offense.