This week features the highly anticipated second legs of the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. On Tuesday, Inter Milan will host FC Barcelona at the San Siro. Their tie is finely poised after a thrilling 3-3 draw in the first leg in Barcelona, a result that demonstrated Inter`s potential to reach the final despite their recent inconsistent form in Serie A.
The following day, Wednesday, sees Paris Saint-Germain welcoming Arsenal to Paris. PSG holds a narrow advantage, having secured a 1-0 victory in London in the first leg.
For Simone Inzaghi`s Inter side, currently trailing in the league with limited matches remaining, reaching the Champions League final likely represents their best chance for a trophy this season. However, overcoming a powerhouse like Hansi Flick`s FC Barcelona is a significant challenge. Barcelona is enjoying a strong campaign, competing for a potential treble after winning the Copa del Rey and holding a four-point lead in their domestic league. A crucial league fixture on May 11th adds to a potentially defining week for the Catalan club. As both Inter and Barcelona face a pivotal moment on Tuesday, PSG and Arsenal are also striving for historic progression. The performance of key individuals will be critical in deciding which teams advance.
Here are four players, one from each team, whose influence could determine the outcome of these decisive second legs:
Marcus Thuram (Inter Milan)
The French striker made a significant impact in the first leg, scoring the opening goal just 30 seconds into the match – setting a record for the fastest goal in Champions League semi-final history. Thuram recovered from a muscular injury just in time for the first leg and immediately showed his importance to Inter`s attacking setup, benefiting both his own play and that of his strike partner, Lautaro Martinez. Martinez himself sustained an injury in the first leg and might be unavailable, further increasing Thuram`s centrality to Inzaghi`s plans. Inter will need their top forward operating at his peak if they are to reach the Champions League final for the second time in three seasons, hoping to go one better than their 1-0 defeat to Manchester City in the 2023 final. Thuram has had an excellent season, contributing 14 goals and seven assists so far.
Lamine Yamal (FC Barcelona)
It may seem obvious, but FC Barcelona`s success in the second leg will heavily depend on the performance of their sensational young winger, Lamine Yamal. He was exceptional in the first leg, which also marked his 100th appearance for the club. His stunning goal helped Barcelona fight back after conceding. With uncertainty surrounding striker Robert Lewandowski`s fitness for the starting lineup, the attacking impetus falls largely on Yamal and Raphinha. With 15 goals and 24 assists to his name this season, Yamal is undeniably one of the most talented players on the roster, and his contribution is vital for Barcelona`s aspirations.
Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris Saint-Germain)
The Italian international goalkeeper has been one of PSG`s top performers in the Champions League this campaign. Donnarumma produced crucial saves in the earlier knockout rounds against Liverpool and Aston Villa and delivered another outstanding display in the first leg against Arsenal, reaffirming his position as one of Europe`s elite goalkeepers. PSG is still pursuing their first-ever Champions League trophy, having reached the final in 2020 but losing to Bayern Munich. A significant portion of their hopes rests on the shoulders of their phenomenal goalkeeper, whose form has been impeccable throughout the competition.
Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal)
Mikel Arteta`s Arsenal suffered a disappointing 1-0 loss in the first leg in London but has the opportunity to mount a comeback in the return fixture. A crucial factor in their ability to overturn the deficit will be the performance of their captain and primary creative force, Martin Ødegaard. The Norwegian attacking midfielder is key to unlocking opposing defenses and providing the necessary attacking flair for the Gunners. With three goals in the Champions League this season, he is expected to lead his side`s efforts on Wednesday, supported by talents like Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice.
