Published on May 05, 2025
As the 2024–25 UEFA Champions League semifinal second legs approach, four of Europe’s elite—Barcelona, Inter Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, and Arsenal—are locked in high-stakes battles for a place in the final in Munich on May 31. Here's a detailed look at the qualification scenarios for each club.
Barcelona and Inter Milan played out a thrilling 3-3 draw in the first leg at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, leaving their tie perfectly balanced. For Barcelona, the task is straightforward: a win in the second leg at the San Siro will take them through to the final. A draw after 90 minutes will lead to extra time and potentially penalties, while a loss would end their Champions League dream. Despite playing away, Barcelona can count on the attacking brilliance of Lamine Yamal and the midfield control of Pedri to try and tilt the balance.
For Inter Milan, scoring three away goals gives them confidence heading into the home leg. A win in Milan will send them to their second UCL final in three seasons. Like Barcelona, a draw means extra time, and defeat would eliminate them. Simone Inzaghi’s side will lean on the experience of Lautaro Martínez and Nicolò Barella to manage the occasion and potentially capitalize on home support.
On the other side of the bracket, Paris Saint-Germain carry a slender 1-0 lead over Arsenal after their first-leg win at the Emirates Stadium. The French champions must avoid defeat at the Parc des Princes to progress. A win or draw will be enough to book their place in the final. If PSG lose by one goal, the match will go into extra time; a loss by two or more goals would see them knocked out. Kylian Mbappé’s pace and finishing could once again be decisive as PSG eye their first Champions League title.
Arsenal must come from behind to overturn PSG’s narrow advantage. The Gunners need to win the second leg by at least two goals to advance directly to the final. A one-goal win would force extra time, while any lesser result spells elimination. Mikel Arteta’s men will look to Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice to deliver a historic comeback and reach their first UCL final since 2006.
With so much on the line, both semifinals promise high drama, tactical battles, and moments of individual brilliance. Whether it’s Barcelona’s flair, Inter’s resilience, PSG’s ambition, or Arsenal’s determination, only two will advance to Munich—and every minute in the return legs will be decisive.
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