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FC Barcelona is set to engage in its first Champions League semifinal since 2019 against Inter Milan this coming Wednesday.
Head coach Hansi Flick has announced that he will retain the same lineup that triumphed over Real Madrid 3-2 in the Copa del Rey final last weekend for the pivotal first leg in Montjuic.
The Catalan side experienced a tense moment in Seville when late goals from Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni appeared to secure a dramatic turn, giving Madrid a 2-1 lead.
In a thrilling comeback, Ferran Torres netted the equalizer just before the final whistle, capitalizing on a precise pass from Lamine Yamal.
During extra time, defender Jules Kounde intercepted a pass from Luka Modric, which was intended for Brahim Diaz just outside the box. With determination, Kounde took a single touch before shooting past goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, propelling Barcelona’s ambition for a potential quadruple this season.
Despite some fatigue displayed by the starting eleven, Flick’s substitutions—including Gavi, Fermin Lopez, and Ronald Araujo—made a significant impact in the latter stages of the Copa final and may play a crucial role in the upcoming European clash.
Strategic Continuity for FC Barcelona
Flick’s lineup choice means Wojciech Szczesny will occupy the goalkeeper position. With Alejandro Balde sidelined, Gerard Martin steps in as left back, while Kounde serves as a key player on the right flank.
At the heart of the defense, an emerging talent, Pau Cubarsi, will pair with Inigo Martinez in an effort to contain Inter’s forward Lautaro Martinez.
In midfield, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong will anchor the team, with Dani Olmo maintaining his role as the central attacking midfielder, despite a lackluster performance in Seville that led to his substitution.
As Robert Lewandowski continues to recover his fitness, Ferran Torres will lead the attack as the lone striker, flanked by Lamine Yamal and Raphinha on either side.
Insights from Coach Hansi Flick
“The players are in good spirits. We’re concentrated. Winning against Madrid in the Copa del Rey final was incredibly moving, but now we face the chance to reach the Champions League final—the pinnacle of our ambitions. Today’s training session went well, and I noticed everyone maintains their focus. We’ve analyzed our opponent and discussed areas for improvement since the cup match,” Flick explained.
Projected Starting XI for FC Barcelona against Inter Milan: Szczesny; Martin, Cubarsi, Inigo, Kounde; Pedri, De Jong; Raphinha, Lamine; Ferran
Source
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