Inter Milan and Barcelona are set for their decisive second leg clash in the UEFA Champions League semifinals. The first leg, where Barcelona was initially favored at home, concluded in an exciting 3-3 draw, leaving everything to play for in the return fixture.
Leading up to this match, both teams were active in their domestic leagues. Barcelona secured a victory against Valladolid in La Liga, while Inter Milan kept a clean sheet in their Serie A match against Verona.
The second leg is scheduled to take place at San Siro Stadium in Milan, with kickoff set for 3 p.m. ET. Looking at the latest odds for the 90 minutes of regular time, Barcelona enters as the slight favorite at +115, meaning a $100 bet would win $115. Inter Milan is listed as the underdog at +200, and a draw is priced at +290. The total goals line is set at 3.5.
Before the match, SportsLine soccer expert Jon Eimer offered his insights and betting predictions for this crucial Champions League tie.
Jon Eimer`s Expert Predictions:
Prediction: Barcelona Money Line (+115)
Eimer favors Barcelona to win, citing their recent form which includes a five-match unbeaten run with four wins. He notes that despite conceding three goals in their last two Champions League games, the return of key goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is expected to boost their defense. Conversely, Inter Milan might be hampered in attack as their top scorer, Lautaro Martinez, is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Prediction: Barcelona Total Goals Over 1.5 (-130)
According to Eimer, both sides have recently demonstrated a preference for aggressive attacking play with high defensive lines rather than cautious, defensive setups. He suggests this approach makes both teams vulnerable and could lead to another match with multiple goals, although he isn`t certain it will reach the six goals scored in the first leg. Barcelona`s offensive capabilities are strong, having netted over 1.5 goals in four of their last five fixtures.
Prediction: Raphinha to Score or Assist (-115)
This specific prop bet proved successful in the first leg when the Brazilian winger provided an assist on Ferran Torres` goal. Raphinha has been a significant attacking threat for Barcelona in the Champions League this season, contributing a combined 12 goals and eight assists across 13 appearances.
