Champions League semi-final review

Inter Milan 1-0 AC Milan (Agg 3-0)

One of sports most colossal rivalries in the world on the biggest stage. This Champions League semi-final was like no other. The game was played like a battle between men, not a sporting contest. Inter came out on top and will play in their first champions league final in 13 years, they edged out Milan in a very close 180 minutes of football. Inter were braver and took the chances that fell their way, winning the game many would see as a coin toss. Simone Inzaghi’s side will go into the final as underdogs, the Italian giants will need to prove themselves against world football’s best-performing team Manchester City. One of the best performers for Inter during this campaign is former City striker Edin Dzeko. The now 37-year-old will look to cause problems for the city backline and play a disruptive part in the final. Dzeko’s strike partner Lautaro Martinez is now one win away from winning the Champions League and the World Cup in less than six months.

Manchester City 4-0 Real Madrid (Agg 5-1)

Treble chasers Man City are into the final of the Champions League for the second time in their history. Pep Guardiola’s men are the favourites to take home the trophy when they face Inter in Istanbul on the 10th of June. The Citizens dismantled Real Madrid in a stunning second-leg performance. Ultimately, City’s four goals flattered Madrid, with it being their best-ever performance on the world’s biggest stage, masterminded by the former Barcelona boss. A dominant midfield display from City’s playmakers Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva outclassed the veterans in the Madrid side, Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. Silva was the hero of the night in the Etihad, scoring the first two goals of the evening and giving his side the confidence that the game was won within the first half. It was a rare sight to see that Erling Haaland’s name was not on the scoresheet but with 12 goals already in the competition this season, he will be looking to be the main man in the final.

SportJohnny Orr