In a thrilling UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg on April 30, 2025, FC Barcelona drew 3-3 with Inter Milan at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. While 17-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal dazzled with a record-breaking goal, his post-match revelations about critical errors have sparked debate. Despite his brilliance, these mistakes nearly led to a disastrous home defeat.
Yamal, the youngest scorer in Champions League semi-final history at 17 years and 291 days, admitted to losing possession 35 times, a match-high, disrupting Barcelona’s rhythm. His 6/10 dribble success rate, though impressive, included risky moves that left gaps exploited by Inter’s counterattacks, notably Marcus Thuram’s 30-second opener. Additionally, Yamal’s failure to track Denzel Dumfries allowed the Inter wing-back to score twice, exposing defensive frailties.
Despite these lapses, Yamal’s stunning 24th-minute goal and two shots off the crossbar showcased his genius. Barcelona fought back from 2-0 and 3-2 deficits, with Ferran Torres and an own goal by Yann Sommer leveling the score. However, Yamal’s self-critical remarks underline areas for growth as Barcelona prepares for the decisive second leg at San Siro on May 6.
Fans and analysts praise Yamal’s maturity in owning his mistakes, but with the tie poised at 3-3, his ability to refine his decision-making will be crucial. Can the La Masia gem rise above his errors to lead Barcelona to the final? Share your thoughts below!
