The stage is set for a pivotal clash in the 2025 UEFA Champions League semifinals as Barcelona prepares to host Inter Milan for the first leg at their home ground. Barcelona enters this match in high spirits, fresh off a victory against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final over the weekend and maintaining an impressive unbeaten record on their home pitch. Conversely, Inter is in need of a morale boost, having failed to score in their last three consecutive league matches and subsequently dropping from the top spot in the Serie A standings.
Kickoff at Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium in Barcelona is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET. According to the latest betting odds for the match, the home side, Barcelona, is favored at -160 on the 90-minute money line. Inter Milan is listed as the underdog at +380, while a draw is priced at +320. The over/under for the total number of goals scored in the match is set at 3.5.
Expert Analysis and Picks
Here are the Champions League picks and predictions for Barcelona vs. Inter Milan from proven soccer expert Jon Eimer:
Raphinha to score or assist (-125)
Brazilian forward Raphinha is expected to step up, especially with Barcelona`s main striker Robert Lewandowski currently sidelined due to injury. Raphinha showed his attacking prowess in the recent Copa del Rey final, tallying seven shots with three on target. Eimer suggests that a similar level of performance against a potentially fatigued Inter defense could well result in a goal or an assist. This specific player proposition is available with odds of -125.
Barcelona to score in both halves (+125)
Hansi Flick`s side has consistently found the back of the net recently, scoring in two of their last three competitive fixtures and in three out of their last four matches played at home. Betting on Barcelona to score at least one goal in each half of Wednesday`s semifinal encounter is offered at +120 odds.
Barcelona on the money line (-150)
Barcelona boasts an outstanding home record, being undefeated in their last 15 matches across all competitions played on their own turf. In contrast, Inter was kept scoreless in their most recent away fixture against Bologna. While Inter will be eager to find their scoring form after three games without a goal, Eimer believes Barcelona`s defensive resilience combined with their potent attack will be decisive. Eimer commented, “Barcelona have some of the most creative midfielders and prolific strikers in the world right now, including Ferran Torres, Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Dani Olmo and Frenkie de Jong… I know that Inter’s defense can be good and I know Barcelona is probably tired, but their momentum should be too much for anyone to stop right now.”
