Barcelona Suffer Major Injury Setback as Koundé Limps Off Against Inter
Barcelona’s ambitions of reaching the UEFA Champions League final took a hit after defender Jules Koundé was forced off with an injury during their semi-final clash against Inter Milan at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on April 30.
The French center-back appeared to suffer a leg injury and was substituted in the 42nd minute, with Eric Garcia taking his place. With Robert Lewandowski already sidelined due to a thigh problem, Koundé’s potential absence adds to Barcelona’s growing injury concerns ahead of the decisive second leg in Milan.
The match had a chaotic start for the hosts. Inter’s Marcus Thuram stunned the crowd by scoring the fastest goal in Champions League semi-final history—just 30 seconds in—via an audacious back-heel finish. Denzel Dumfries then made it 2-0 for the visitors with a sensational bicycle kick in the 21st minute.
Barcelona responded quickly. Teenage star Lamine Yamal, at just 17 years and 291 days old, became the youngest player to ever score in a Champions League semi-final, pulling one back in the 24th minute with a dazzling solo goal. Ferran Torres then brought the scores level in the 38th minute, heading in Raphinha’s assist.
With the game tied at 2-2 at halftime, both sides still have everything to fight for in the second half. Meanwhile, Barça manager Hansi Flick will anxiously await updates on Koundé’s condition, knowing that defensive stability will be crucial for the return leg.
Flick on Facing Inter Milan
Ahead of the match, manager Hansi Flick shared his thoughts about the tie against Inter Milan, emphasizing the importance of carrying momentum from their recent 3-2 Copa del Rey extra-time win over Real Madrid. With hopes of completing a historic treble, Flick and his squad are focused on taking full advantage of their home leg in this tightly contested semi-final.
